Indiana Pacers Lead NBA Finals 2-1 Behind Bench Scoring

The Indiana Pacers have emerged as a formidable contender in the 2025 NBA Finals, sitting just two wins away from their first championship in franchise history. A key factor in their success has been the return of Bennedict Mathurin, who delivered a career-best postseason performance in Game 3, scoring 27 points off the bench and energizing the team during critical moments. The Pacers’ depth, pace, and resilience have repeatedly worn down opponents, with contributions from veterans like T.J. McConnell and Tyrese Haliburton, whose steady play silences critics. Despite offensive challenges such as limited points in the paint early in the series, the Pacers’ coach Rick Carlisle emphasizes the team’s commitment to improving and capitalizing on home-court advantage. Analysts note Indiana’s intensity and focus, particularly in the fourth quarter of Game 3, as decisive factors that could lead them to the championship. Overall, the Pacers’ blend of depth, grit, and clutch performances has shifted expectations and positioned them as favorites to win the series against the Oklahoma City Thunder.