Oklahoma City Thunder Reach NBA Finals, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Leads MVP Odds

The 2025 NBA Finals pit the Oklahoma City Thunder against the Indiana Pacers, with the Thunder entering as heavy favorites after a dominant season led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Gilgeous-Alexander, who secured both the regular-season MVP and Western Conference Finals MVP, is the overwhelming favorite to win the Finals MVP, with odds ranging from -550 to -700 across sportsbooks, reflecting confidence in his continued elite performance. The Thunder finished the regular season with the league's best record and have displayed consistent dominance in the playoffs, positioning Gilgeous-Alexander to potentially complete an unprecedented MVP trifecta. Meanwhile, the Pacers, though lower-seeded and historically at a disadvantage in the Finals, have made a surprising run fueled by key players Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam, who hold longer odds for the Finals MVP. Basketball analysts and former players emphasize the significance of a championship for Gilgeous-Alexander, suggesting it would cement his legacy as the greatest player in Thunder history and possibly earn him a statue. The Finals will test whether the Pacers can defy historical trends and if Gilgeous-Alexander can maintain his exceptional form to solidify his status among NBA greats.