NBA Finals Rematch: Pacers vs Thunder Clash Amid Injury Crisis
The Indiana Pacers travel to face the Oklahoma City Thunder on January 23, 2026, at Paycom Center in what marks their first meeting in Oklahoma City since last season's dramatic NBA Finals. The Thunder emerged victorious in that championship series and have continued their dominance this season, boasting one of the league's most impressive records.
Team Standings and Context
Oklahoma City enters this contest with a formidable 37-8 record, firmly controlling the Western Conference. In stark contrast, the Indiana Pacers sit at 10-35, struggling near the bottom of the standings after a season plagued by injuries. With both teams missing multiple rotation players, this game shifts focus from ideal lineups to which team can better manage their personnel gaps.
Indiana Pacers Injury Report
The Pacers face significant absences, most notably star guard Tyrese Haliburton, who suffered a torn right Achilles in Game 7 of last year's Finals and remains out for the season. Forward Obi Toppin is sidelined with a right foot stress fracture, with an expected return in early February. Guard Bennedict Mathurin is out with a sprained right thumb, targeting a January 26 return. Additionally, Quenton Jackson is questionable after spraining his right ankle against Boston.
Oklahoma City Thunder Injury Report
The Thunder are also dealing with multiple injuries. Jalen Williams is out with a right hamstring strain and will be re-evaluated in two weeks. Alex Caruso, Isaiah Hartenstein, and Ajay Mitchell are all unavailable. Aaron Wiggins and Jaylin Williams are listed as questionable, while Nikola Topic and Thomas Sorber remain out long-term.
Key Players to Watch
With injuries affecting both rosters, certain players will carry heavier loads. For Indiana, the offense revolves around Pascal Siakam, who averages 23.8 points and seven rebounds per game. Oklahoma City relies heavily on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, scoring around 30 points per game, including a career-high 55 points against Indiana earlier this season. With Hartenstein out, Chet Holmgren will take on an expanded role inside, and both benches are expected to see increased minutes.
Series History and Statistics
The Oklahoma City Thunder lead the all-time regular-season series 56-46. The teams met once this season on October 23, 2025, with the Thunder winning 141-135 in Indiana. Last season's Finals concluded with a 103-91 Thunder victory in Game 7. Over their last 14 meetings, Indiana holds a 6-8 record, but current form heavily favors Oklahoma City.
Team Stats Comparison
- Points Scored: Pacers 109.9 PPG vs Thunder 121.4 PPG (1st in league)
- Points Allowed: Pacers 118.3 PPG vs Thunder ~102.3 PPG
- Field Goal Percentage: Pacers 44.2% vs Thunder higher efficiency
- Three-Point Percentage: Pacers 34.0% vs Thunder strong performance
- Rebounds: Pacers 42.8 vs Thunder dominant
- Net Rating: Pacers -8.4 (28th) vs Thunder elite (1st in West)
Game Expectations and Odds
Oklahoma City is favored by 14.5 points, with the total set at 226.5. Despite missing key players, the Thunder's depth and strong home record give them a clear advantage. Indiana's injury-depleted roster makes an upset unlikely, but the numerous absences on both sides could lead to unexpected lineups and extended minutes for role players, adding an element of unpredictability to the matchup.
