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**Pacers Aim to Extend Finals Lead Over Thunder in Pivotal Game 4**

**Indianapolis, IN** – The Indiana Pacers hold a 2-1 lead over the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2025 NBA Finals, and Game 4 looms as a crucial turning point. History heavily favors the team leading 2-1, with nearly 80% going on to win the series. A win for Indiana would push that to a staggering 97%. Conversely, a Thunder victory would even the series, shifting the momentum back to Oklahoma City and turning the Finals into a best-of-three.

The Pacers have relied heavily on their bench production, outscoring the Thunder’s reserves in Games 1 and 3. Bennedict Mathurin’s 27-point performance in Game 3 was a key factor in Indiana’s victory. The Thunder, on the other hand, need to find more consistent contributions from their bench and avoid over-reliance on stars Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams.

Both teams are bracing for a potentially grueling Game 4, coming just 48 hours after Game 3. Fatigue could play a significant role, testing the depth and resilience of both squads. The Pacers’ up-tempo style, while effective, demands considerable energy. The Thunder need role players like Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Joe to get involved.

While 3-point shooting hasn’t been the deciding factor, controlling possessions and maximizing scoring opportunities will be critical. The Pacers’ experience in close games could give them an edge, but the Thunder will look to leverage their star power to even the series.

Game 4 tips off tonight at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, with the winner taking a significant step towards the NBA Championship.

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