03/06/2025
Indiana Pacers KEY
Newcomers
Johnny Furphy (G/F): A rookie in the 2024-25 season, Furphy is a depth player who’s been soaking up experience during Indiana’s playoff run. He’s noted for staying game-ready off the bench.
Jarace Walker (F): In his second season with the Pacers, Walker is still developing but contributes as a reserve, as seen in his three-point shooting in regular-season games against OKC.
Ben Sheppard (G): In his second season, Sheppard is another young player providing depth, with limited but impactful minutes (e.g., layups assisted by T.J. McConnell).
Veterans
Tyrese Haliburton (G): In his fifth NBA season and third with the Pacers, Haliburton is the engine of Indiana’s high-octane offense (117 points per 100 possessions in the playoffs). He’s a pass-first point guard averaging 19 points, 10 assists, and 6 rebounds in the postseason, with clutch playmaking critical against OKC.
Pascal Siakam (F): Acquired via trade in 2024, Siakam is in his second season with the Pacers and ninth in the NBA. A playoff-tested champion (2019 with Toronto), he’s the Eastern Conference Finals MVP, averaging 21.1 points and 5.8 rebounds. His versatility as a wing/forward challenges OKC’s bigs.
Myles Turner (C): In his 10th season with the Pacers, Turner is a defensive anchor with shot-blocking and three-point shooting. His rebounding (5.8 per game in the playoffs) is a weakness against OKC’s frontcourt, but his paint presence is vital.
T.J. McConnell (G): A veteran backup guard in his 10th NBA season and sixth with Indiana, McConnell is a hustle player known for playmaking (e.g., multiple assists in games against OKC) and clutch shots.
Aaron Nesmith (F): In his fifth NBA season and third with the Pacers, Nesmith is a stout perimeter defender often tasked with guarding stars like SGA or Jalen Williams. His physicality is crucial, though an ankle injury may limit him.
Andrew Nembhard (G): In his third season with Indiana, Nembhard is a young veteran who often defends SGA, providing physical defense and clutch playmaking. He’s part of the Pacers’ heart-and-soul duo with Nesmith.
Obi Toppin (F): In his fifth season and third with the Pacers, Toppin is a key bench player earning $12.975 million, adding energy and scoring (e.g., 21 points in a regular-season game vs. OKC).