The Indiana Pacers host the Oklahoma City Thunder tonight at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Game 6 of the 2025 NBA Finals. Down 2-3, Indiana’s season is on the line. But they received good news this evening when Tyrese Haliburton was cleared to play.
The Pacers’ point guard, who has been clutch all postseason, suffered a calf strain in Game 5 that was so bad that head coach Rick Carlisle considered pulling him out of the game in the second half.
Haliburton stayed in the game — but he was arguably a liability for Indiana with his diminished mobility. He ended the game without making a single field goal.
So the question tonight is not whether or not Haliburton will play, but whether his presence on the court will help or hurt.
Haliburton hit 15 straight threes in pre-game workouts, but he wasn’t exactly elevating much. So he may be ready to play, but it’s not clear how much of an impact he’ll make.
More of the burden may fall on Andrew Nembhard, who could have to step up as the dominant ballhandler.
As for the Thunder, they have little to worry about. They have a one-game cushion in case things somehow go wrong tonight, and they’re led by their indefatigable superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Expect the Thunder to win tonight — and claim their first title since moving to Oklahoma City.
Game and Series Prediction: Thunder win by 7 tonight to clinch the series 4-2.
How to Watch Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Indiana Pacers
Game 6 of the 2025 NBA Finals between the Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder tips off just after 8:30 PM Eastern. The game airs live on ABC and streams on both the ABC and ESPN apps and websites.
Thunder vs. Pacers
Date & Time: Thursday, June 19, 2025, 8:30 PM Eastern
Venue: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN
TV: ABC
Streaming: ABC and ESPN apps and websites
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