The Indiana Pacers arrived home from Oklahoma City with their NBA Finals series against the Thunder knotted at 1-1, but with no illusions about the challenges that remain. While securing a road split represents a significant achievement for the lower-seeded team, Indiana’s coaching staff and players recognize substantial improvements are needed before Wednesday’s crucial Game 3 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Coach Rick Carlisle didn’t mince words about his team’s performance. “We’re going to have to be a lot better on Wednesday,” he stated, reflecting on statistics that reveal Indiana’s offensive struggles. Through two finals games, no Pacers player has reached the 20-point mark, and the team has held leads for just 1 minute and 54 seconds total – a startlingly low figure that includes their Game 1 victory.
Sunday’s 104-92 Game 2 loss exposed particular concerns in Indiana’s interior offense. The Thunder became the first team in over nine years to hold the Pacers without a single paint point in an entire first quarter. “We have to do a better job getting to the paint,” acknowledged All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton. “Our offense is built from the inside-out, and we have to do a better job getting downhill against their defense.”
The Thunder’s defensive scheme, featuring elite perimeter defenders and shot-blockers, has disrupted Indiana’s rhythm. Oklahoma City’s ability to collapse on drivers while protecting the rim has forced the Pacers into uncomfortable offensive positions. As the series shifts to Indianapolis for Games 3 and 4, adjustments in ball movement and penetration will be critical for the home team.
While the Pacers can draw confidence from stealing home-court advantage, they understand the fleeting nature of that edge. A single home loss would immediately return the advantage to Oklahoma City in the 2-2-1-1-1 series format. With the city experiencing its first NBA Finals excitement in 25 years, Indiana’s players recognize both the opportunity and responsibility awaiting them on Wednesday night.
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