The outcome of Game 5 looked like a score that most anticipated the majority of this series would look. With the series set at 3-2 in favor of the Thunder, the series and season feel like we will be reaching a conclusion of SGA and the Thunder hoisting the Larry O’Brien trophy.
The biggest story line coming out of Game 5 was the apparent calf strain and injury to the engine of this Pacers offense and team, Tyrese Haliburton. Haliburton failed to make one field goal and was held to 4 points all coming by way of the free throw line in 34 labored minutes.
With the uncertainty of his availability in Game 6 it’s hard to see a path for this Indiana fever dream of a run to continue. The Thunder seemed to have found their rhythm the last 5 quarters and the activity their wings and guards have output on the defensive end has been impressive.
The Thunder winning this series and the championship in general is to no one’s surprise. After a disappointing playoff exit last year to the hands of a Dallas team that got red hot, this team looked poised at the start of the season to make a longer playoff run and possibly win it all. It’s not breaking news that this team is young, loaded with draft capital and if they can win one more game this season feel very 2015 Warrior’s-esque. A extremely young team with a core of guys at the same age.
Moving into Game 6 the Pacers have their work cut out for them. SGA and Jalen Williams are finding their stride, Haliburton is out or at least compromised health wise and their is blood in the water. Indiana once again looking like a deep roster that is running into superstar(s) hungry for their first title again. 95′ and 00′ feel all too familiar again.
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