The Indiana Pacers made a surprising move during the NBA Finals, trading their No. 23 draft pick and the rights to Mojave King to the New Orleans Pelicans for their own 2026 first-round pick. While King has spent time in the G-League and the NBL, the primary aim of this trade is to bolster Indiana's draft flexibility. Previously, the Pacers were limited in trading picks due to the Stepien Rule, but this trade allows them to now move first-round picks in upcoming years, enabling them to pursue significant roster upgrades.

This strategic decision could signal Indiana's intent to not just maintain competitiveness but to actively seek out star players. With the capability to trade first-round picks in 2026, 2028, 2030, and 2032, along with pick swaps in 2027, 2029, and 2031, the Pacers are positioning themselves to retool effectively as they navigate through the current playoffs.

The OKC Thunder have taken a commanding lead in the NBA Finals, currently 3-2 against the Indiana Pacers. Behind standout performances from role players like Cason Wallace and Aaron Wiggins, the Thunder have demonstrated the depth that has been critical to their success this season. While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams received significant accolades, it's the collective effort from the supporting cast that has allowed the team to shine on the biggest stage.

In their Game 5 victory, Wallace and Wiggins contributed 25 points off the bench. Their willingness to share the spotlight reflects a team culture where every player is committed to doing whatever it takes to secure victory. With the series continuing, OKC's bench looks poised to step up again, showcasing the team's resilience and depth as they chase their first championship.

Chet Holmgren stands on the brink of NBA history as the Oklahoma City Thunder moved within one win of the championship title after a convincing 120-109 Game 5 victory over the Indiana Pacers. Holmgren's defensive prowess was instrumental, showcasing his ability to control the paint with 11 rebounds and three blocks, alongside 9 points. Notably, he is now third all-time in playoff blocks for players 23 and younger, just behind legends Serge Ibaka and Kobe Bryant.

His transition from a college star at Gonzaga to a key defensive figure on a championship contender highlights his dedication. With Oklahoma City aiming for its first title since 1979, Holmgren's continued performance will be crucial as the series heads to Game 6, where Gonzaga fans await the potential crowning of one of their own as an NBA champion.

The Oklahoma City Thunder triumphed in Game 5 of the 2025 NBA Finals, defeating the Indiana Pacers 120-109, marking their first lead in the series at 3-2. Jalen Williams emerged as a standout, scoring 40 points efficiently, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed a strong 31 points and 10 assists. Chet Holmgren rounded out the performance with 9 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 blocks. On the Pacers' side, Pascal Siakam led with 28 points and 6 boards, but Tyrese Haliburton struggled, finishing with just 4 points and 6 assists. TJ McConnell's 18 points off the bench highlighted the Pacers' efforts.

In a tense Game 5 of the 2025 NBA Finals, Tyrese Haliburton struggled through calf tightness, recording a dismal 0-for-6 shooting performance and just four points in 34 minutes, contributing to the Indiana Pacers' 120-109 loss against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite an early exit for treatment, Haliburton insisted on returning but appeared hampered, leading to critical turnovers and defensive lapses. Coach Rick Carlisle acknowledged Haliburton's diminished state, emphasizing the need for his star player to regain form as the Pacers approach a must-win Game 6 at home.

As the contest unfolded, the Pacers faced a daunting 18-point deficit but rallied, only to be thwarted by Haliburton's miscommunication and missed opportunities. The defeat places significant pressure on Indiana, which must find a way to win without the full strength of its playmaker. Haliburton's determination to play through pain reflects his commitment, but his effectiveness will be crucial if the Pacers hope to extend the series.