The Oklahoma City Thunder
responded to the pressure of a 2-1 series deficit with composure,
adjustments, and a superstar performance from Shai
Gilgeous-Alexander. In a must-win Game 4 of the NBA Finals, the
Thunder executed a near-perfect game plan, tying the series 2-2
with a 111-104 victory over the Indiana Pacers. From SGA’s takeover
to bold rotation changes and defensive wrinkles, Oklahoma City
reminded everyone why they were the No. 1 seed in the
West.
SGA puts on his ‘Superman’ cape again
With the season practically on
the line, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander once again elevated his play. The
All-NBA guard poured in 35 points, including 15 in the 4th, and
dictated the pace and tempo in every quarter. It wasn’t just the
numbers – it was the control. Every time Indiana threatened a run,
SGA answered with a tough bucket, a timely assist, or a composed
possession that steadied the Thunder.
It’s the kind of poise usually
reserved for veterans with deep playoff mileage. For
Gilgeous-Alexander, this postseason has been a coming-of-age story
in real time. Game 4 was just the latest chapter in his superstar
rise.
Thunder starts with a double-big lineup
again
After success in short stretches
earlier in the series, head coach Mark Daigneault leaned fully into
the double-big lineup by starting both Chet Holmgren and Isaiah
Hartenstein. The move gave OKC more size at the rim, much-needed
rebounding help, and physicality that wore down Indiana’s
frontcourt.
Hartenstein’s presence was
particularly important against Indiana’s bruising interior attack.
While he didn’t stuff the stat sheet, his screens, rim protection,
and second-chance efforts gave the Thunder control in the paint.
Holmgren, meanwhile, stretched the floor and blocked shots, proving
the two can coexist when the matchup calls for it.
Alex Caruso delivers on both ends of the
floor
Alex Caruso gave the Thunder a
massive lift with 20 points, marking his second 20-point
performance of the Finals. Known primarily for his defense and
intangibles, Caruso’s offensive aggression stood out in Game 4. He
hit timely threes, attacked closeouts, and punished Indiana for
sagging off him.
More than just the scoring,
Caruso’s energy was contagious. He drew offensive fouls, hounded
Indiana’s ball-handlers, and never let the Pacers get comfortable
initiating offense. In a series where every possession feels
pivotal, Caruso’s two-way play has been invaluable.
OKC flips the defensive pressure on Indiana
Indiana had found success with
aggressive full-court pressure earlier in the series. In Game 4,
the Thunder flipped the script, applying similar tactics against
the Pacers, and the result was telling.
OKC’s guards picked up full
court, forcing Indiana into rushed possessions, errant passes, and
late-clock decisions. It wasn’t just a gimmick – it was a strategic
counter that took Indiana out of rhythm. Fatigue clearly set in for
Indiana’s lead guards as the game wore on, leading to turnovers and
less-efficient offense.
The Thunder’s ability to adapt
defensively and to use the Pacers’ own tactics against them was a
quiet but key ingredient to their Game 4 win.
– – –
With the series tied and now
effectively a best-of-three, all momentum has shifted back to
neutral. Both teams have shown they can make adjustments, and both
have stars capable of swinging games. But with Gilgeous-Alexander
continuing his heroic run and Daigneault showing tactical
flexibility, Oklahoma City heads into Game 5 with a renewed sense
of belief—and a real shot to seize control of the
Finals.
