Title: Pacers Focus on Tough Defense Against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in NBA Finals
OKLAHOMA CITY – As the Pacers prepare for Game 2 of the 2025 NBA Finals, Head Coach Rick Carlisle has made it clear: they are not aiming to let Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dominate the game. “We are not looking to get Shai going," Carlisle stated ahead of the crucial matchup. “That doesn’t make any sense.”
This sentiment is understandable. When a team’s star player is heavily involved in the game, it naturally places significant strain on the opposing defense. Thus, limiting Gilgeous-Alexander’s opportunities can indeed shift the game in the Pacers’ favor.
Looking back at previous playoff series provides some insights. In the Eastern Conference semifinals, Donovan Mitchell of the Cavaliers had a remarkable series, averaging 34.2 points per game against the Pacers, leading to Cleveland’s struggles and eventual exit from the playoffs. This was mainly because, despite Mitchell’s impressive performance, he was the sole offensive threat; other players like Evan Mobley did not significantly contribute during that series. Consequently, the Pacers managed to eliminate the Cavaliers in five games.
In their first Finals outing, Oklahoma City’s Gilgeous-Alexander scored an impressive 38 points. However, the performance of other Thunder players was insufficient to secure a win, as only one teammate scored more than 15 points in that game. The Thunder’s collective offensive efficiency plummeted, scoring just 104.7 points per 100 possessions when Gilgeous-Alexander was on the floor.
As the Pacers gear up for Game 2, they intend to stick to their defensive strategy against the Thunder’s star player. “We want to make it hard,” said Carlisle, emphasizing the focus on making Gilgeous-Alexander work for every point. The guards and forwards will likely work in concert to keep him thoroughly challenged and tire him out throughout the game.
In Game 1, the Pacers employed a multi-faceted approach. They assigned Canadian teammate Andrew Nembhard to defend Gilgeous-Alexander, while also utilizing players like Pascal Siakam and Obi Toppin to switch defensive responsibilities. The intent was to force Gilgeous-Alexander into awkward shooting positions and limit his scoring opportunities from both inside and outside the arc.
Pacers guard T.J. McConnell emphasized the collective effort involved, stating, “It’s about making things as difficult as possible.” Although Gilgeous-Alexander had a strong game, the Pacers’ strategy meant he had to take many tough shots, leading to an overall inefficient offense for the Thunder.
Moreover, the Thunder’s overall passing was reduced; they mustered just 207 passes in Game 1, a season low. This lack of ball movement not only affected their scoring but put significant pressure on Gilgeous-Alexander, who attempted to do much of the offensive work himself.
For Oklahoma City to bounce back in Game 2, they will need their supporting players to step up. Gilgeous-Alexander himself acknowledged that he must adapt his game depending on the defensive look he faces. “I will read the defense and that will determine whether I shoot or pass,” he said, emphasizing the importance of teamwork.
The Thunder’s other key players, such as Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, need to find their offensive rhythm. Historically, efficient scoring from secondary options is essential, especially against a strong defensive team like the Pacers. Williams noted that maintaining confidence in their shooting is crucial, despite the increased pressure that comes with such pivotal games.
As Game 2 approaches, both teams are ready to make adjustments. The Pacers aim to replicate the successful strategies that led them to their Game 1 victory, while the Thunder focus on bolstering their support system around their star player.
Carlisle remained focused on the task at hand: “We don’t want Shai scoring 38 points if we can avoid it.” Their concentration will be on navigating through Oklahoma City’s offensive schemes while remaining resilient against his talent.
As the countdown to Game 2 ticks down, it’s clear that both teams will have to bring their best to adapt to the challenging dynamics of the Finals. The battle continues, and fans on both sides will be eagerly anticipating the outcome.
