June 8, 2025

NBA Finals Game 2: USA TODAY Sports experts make their picks

The NBA Finals pick up again Sunday, June 8, after a two-day layoff which has given fans the opportunity to dissect and debate Tyrese Haliburton’s game-winning shot from every angle.

On the heels of the Indiana Pacers’ shocking 111-110 comeback victory in Game 1, the Oklahoma City Thunder play host again in Game 2 (8 p.m. ET, ABC).

Thunder coach Mark Daigenault has said he won’t reveal his plan for the starting lineup after changing his postseason strategy for Game 1, going with extra guard Cason Wallace and one big man in Chet Holmgren, leaving center Isaiah Hartenstein to come off the bench.

Holmgren had a disappointing NBA Finals debut, scoring just six points, but Indiana coach Rick Carlisle has warned he expects the third-year forward/center to be more aggressive this time around.

USA TODAY Sports’ experts make their NBA Finals Game 2 picks for the Indiana Pacers vs. the Oklahoma City Thunder:

NBA Finals Game 2 predictions

  • Scooby Axson: Pacers 124, Thunder 117
  • Jordan Mendoza: Thunder 104, Pacers 92
  • Lorenzo Reyes: Thunder 111, Pacers 102
  • Heather Tucker: Thunder 117, Pacers 110
  • James Williams: Thunder 115, Pacers 95
  • Jeff Zillgitt: Thunder 120, Pacers 109

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