Overview

• Haliburton described his condition as a minor lower leg issue, practiced without limitations and will suit up after coach Rick Carlisle said the discomfort is improving.
• The series shifts to Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis with the Finals tied 1-1 following Indiana’s last-second win in Game 1 and Oklahoma City’s dominant response in Game 2.
• Indiana has trailed for all but 1 minute and 56 seconds across the first two games, underscoring the need to reduce early turnovers and sluggish starts against the Thunder’s defense.
• Carlisle pointed out that the Pacers haven’t lost back-to-back games in three months and emphasized the importance of creating better offensive situations against Oklahoma City’s shifting coverages.
• Oklahoma City’s defense, anchored by multiple All-Defensive team members and flexible lineups, has used physical rotations to pressure Haliburton and limit scoring in the paint.