As the Oklahoma City Thunder prepares to take on the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of the NBA finals tonight, all eyes are naturally locked on MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The game will be played at the Paycom Center, where Thunder fans will bring the energy. With both teams coming off strong playoff runs, the stage remains perfectly set for an intense finals opener.
Gilgeous-Alexander remains the cornerstone of Oklahoma City’s campaign. He averaged 32.7 points, five rebounds, and 6.4 assists this season, leading from the front at every step. With such dominant numbers, questions about his fitness ahead of Game 2 made fans anxious. Thankfully, the Thunder fans can breathe a collective sigh of relief.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander made HISTORY in Game 1 👏
— NBA (@NBA) June 6, 2025
His 38 PTS are the 3rd-most in a Finals debut EVER, behind only:
Allen Iverson (48 – 2001)
George Mikan (42 – 1949) pic.twitter.com/Bz8Me1Cgbj
According to the team’s official injury report, Gilgeous-Alexander is not on the Injury list, which confirms his potential and healthy availability. He will start tonight’s game and will likely play a major bounce-back delivery. With him leading the lineup, the Thunder will look to seize an early lead in the series.
Injury Looms Amid The Thrilling Final Series
While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is fully fit, the Thunder still have one key player unavailable. Nikola Topic, who remained sidelined with a knee injury since January, will miss the finals. His absence affects the team’s depth, though they have adapted well without him so far.
Meanwhile, the pacers are also dealing with injuries. Tony Bradley remained questionable due to a hip injury, while Jarace Walker and Isaiah Jackson will not be playing with their ankle and Achilles injuries, respectively. These setbacks could influence their rotation and game plan.
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Even with these injury concerns, both teams are ready to fight. With Gilgeous-Alexander cleared to play, the Thunder will look to take full advantage at home. The upcoming game will shape the thrilling series for the most compelling finals in recent years.
