The Indiana Pacers are heading into Game 3 of their playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, tied 1-1. However, they are facing a tough challenge—finding a way to break through the Thunder’s high-pressure defense and get star point guard Tyrese Haliburton more involved.
In Game 2, the Pacers struggled offensively, putting up just 41 points in the first half, with Haliburton shooting just 2-of-7 through three quarters, failing to score in the paint.
The Challenge of Oklahoma City’s Defensive Pressure
Oklahoma City has been known for its intense, physical defense, and Game 2 was no exception. Haliburton admitted the Thunder’s defense, which is built on quickness, strength, and versatility, made things difficult for the Pacers.
“They’ve got more guys than most teams in the NBA that are high level at the point of attack,” Haliburton said. The Thunder mix up their coverages and aren’t afraid to adjust mid-game, making it even harder to get a consistent offensive flow.
Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault explained that players like Lu Dort, Jalen Williams, and Cason Wallace provide constant defensive pressure. With rim protectors like Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein backing up the perimeter defenders, it’s tough for opponents to get to the basket.
Haliburton and his teammates have been watching film of their performance in Game 2, particularly the second half when Haliburton scored 12 points and seemed to find a rhythm. The Pacers are determined to make adjustments to ensure they’re not repeating the same mistakes in Game 3.
Adjusting the Offensive Strategy
Haliburton acknowledged that the Pacers need to change their offensive approach against the Thunder. “You can’t give these guys the same dosage, the same look of anything,” he said.
The Pacers were largely unsuccessful running high pick-and-roll plays, as the Thunder defense was able to smother them, especially in the first half. Haliburton believes a mix of different strategies—such as playing off the ball, using ball screens, and varying their offensive sets—is key to breaking the Thunder defense.
To do that, Indiana will need to get more of their offense into the paint, working inside-out, as they have done throughout the season.
A potential shift in their approach might involve giving more offensive responsibility to forward Pascal Siakam, who is comfortable in isolation situations. His ability to create scoring opportunities on his own could provide an alternative scoring option against the Thunder’s tough defense.
Haliburton’s Role in Game 3
The Pacers’ main issue, however, lies with Tyrese Haliburton. While fans might want him to take over the game and shoot more aggressively, Haliburton’s playmaking ability is what makes him valuable to the Pacers. The team needs him to score, but they also rely on him to set up others.
Haliburton has always been known for his unselfishness and instinct to find open teammates, but the Pacers need him to strike a balance—be more assertive without forcing the issue. It’s not about taking 25 shots, but being more involved in scoring when the opportunity presents itself.
“We need more from him, but it’s not just about scoring,” said Haliburton. “It’s about being the floor general and helping others get their shots while also stepping up when needed.”
Game 3: A Critical Moment for the Pacers
With the series tied at 1-1, Game 3 becomes critical for both teams. The Pacers will need to find a way to get Haliburton going without over-relying on him to carry the scoring load. Oklahoma City’s defense is tough, but the Pacers are confident that their adjustments can lead to better offensive execution.
For the Thunder, they are unlikely to change their defensive strategy, and they will continue to apply pressure. “Our approach will be the same,” said Lu Dort. They’ll keep using their strengths—quickness, defensive rotations, and rim protection—to disrupt the Pacers’ offense.
As the Pacers prepare for Game 3, the solution is clear: Tyrese Haliburton needs to step up offensively, but it can’t be at the cost of the team’s system.
Indiana thrives when Haliburton is setting the table and getting everyone involved, but he must be more aggressive in finding his own offense, too. With adjustments to their strategy and Haliburton stepping up, the Pacers hope to land the first punch in Game 3 and take a crucial series lead.
