The Oklahoma City Thunder showcased their defensive strength by overcoming the Indiana Pacers with a 111-104 victory in Game 4 of the NBA Finals, leveling the series at 2-2. The Thunder's stellar defense was on display late in the game, as they held the Pacers to just one point in the final 3:20, outscoring them 12-1. A strategic lineup change by head coach Mark Daigneault, featuring Isaiah Hartenstein alongside Chet Holmgren, proved effective in solidifying the frontcourt against Indiana.

Hartenstein, despite limited minutes, contributed defensively and registered two points, six rebounds, and three assists. Daigneault emphasized the tactical approach behind the lineup shift, noting that it was aimed at finding the best formula for securing the win. With Game 5 set for Monday night, the Thunder aim to capitalize on this momentum, looking to establish a lead in the Finals.

In a crucial Game 4, the Oklahoma City Thunder relied on the experience of Isaiah Hartenstein, reinstating him as a starter against the Indiana Pacers. Despite the initial struggles, Hartenstein's leadership and adaptability shone through, helping the Thunder secure a thrilling win in the NBA Finals. Coach Mark Daigneault’s strategic decision to utilize a single-big lineup proved effective in the past, although it raised questions about player rotations. Cason Wallace's diminished impact led to Hartenstein's return, showcasing the coach's confidence in his seasoned player.

The Thunder's slow start was concerning, but as they rallied back, Hartenstein played a pivotal role, particularly in communicating effectively with teammates about game situations. The strategy moving forward for Game 5 appears to hinge on maintaining Hartenstein in the starting role while leveraging Alex Caruso's defensive prowess in key moments. This blend of experience and tactical adjustments could set the Thunder on course for a commanding series lead.

The Oklahoma City Thunder demonstrated resilience in Game 4 of the NBA Finals, overcoming a significant deficit to triumph over the Indiana Pacers 111-104. This victory ties the series at 2-2 and highlighted key performances from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren. With 15 of the Thunder's final 16 points scored by Gilgeous-Alexander, the team showcased a strong defensive effort, limiting the Pacers to just one point in the final three minutes.

Despite trailing through the first three quarters, the Thunder executed a strategic fourth quarter, outscoring the Pacers 31-17. Holmgren's presence was pivotal, contributing crucial rebounds and putbacks, while Gilgeous-Alexander's shot-blocking and clutch scoring sealed the game. The Thunder's ability to win the 'small battles' proved essential, emphasizing the importance of physicality and aggressiveness in their comeback.

Mark Daigneault's strategic maneuvering paid off as he reinstated Isaiah Hartenstein as the starter for the Thunder's pivotal Game 4 against the Pacers. After experimenting with Cason Wallace in the previous three outings without success, Daigneault recognized the necessity for adjustments. Hartenstein contributed modestly with two points and six rebounds, but his presence seemed to stabilize the lineup, leading to a crucial 111-104 victory that leveled the NBA Finals at 2-2.

Daigneault praised the Thunder's lineup flexibility, noting that they had utilized different starters throughout the season due to varying matchups and injuries. He emphasized the importance of finding the right formula for each game, and his decision to revert to Hartenstein highlighted his trust in familiar combinations. The Holmgren-Hartenstein duo, although not flawless, showed signs of improvement compared to the previous lineup featuring Wallace, indicating that Daigneault’s adjustments may be moving the Thunder closer to success.

The NBA Finals are heating up as the Indiana Pacers face off against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 5, with the series tied at 2-2. Both teams have alternated victories, and with home-court advantage, the Thunder are expected to see their role players step up. Star players, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Tyrese Haliburton, will undoubtedly be the focus for betting props. Gilgeous-Alexander's impressive fourth-quarter performance in Game 4, where he scored 15 points, has set the stage for a high points prop of 33.5 for Game 5, while Haliburton's rebounds prop is set at 4.5, with odds favoring the Under. Betting models suggest Gilgeous-Alexander will continue to dominate at home, while Haliburton's recent trends suggest he might struggle with rebounds.

Isaiah Hartenstein, who has recently returned to the starting lineup, presents an intriguing prop with an Over/Under of 7.5 points plus assists. His scoring output at home has been noticeably better in the playoffs, and if he gets involved early, he could easily exceed that line. With multiple angles to explore in this pivotal Game 5 matchup, bettors and fantasy players alike should keep a close eye on how these player props develop as the game day approaches.