Thunder stumble in NBA Finals opener. Can they bounce back against Pacers in Game 2?

Rylan Stiles breaks down Oklahoma City Thunder's defensive dominance overshadowed by offensive woes in their Game 1 loss to the Indiana Pacers. The analysis covers Mark Daigneault's coaching decisions, SGA's clutch performance, and struggles of key players like Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams. Stiles highlights Lu Dort's standout effort and emphasizes the series is far from over, with Game 2 looming large for OKC's championship aspirations.

Discover why this loss might be the wake-up call the Thunder need to ignite their NBA Finals run.

OpenPhone
Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba

Betterhelp
This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year

FanDuel
Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Thunder vs. Pacers: Small-Market Showdown in NBA Finals The Oklahoma City Thunder face the Indiana Pacers in a historic NBA Finals matchup. Two rising stars, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Tyrese Haliburton, battle for their first championship. Host Rylan Stiles and guest Joe Mussatto break down key storylines, including the coaching duel between Rick Carlisle and Mark Daigneault. They analyze the impact of turnovers, defensive strategies, and how this series could reshape players' legacies. The discussion covers OKC's journey from rebuild to contender and the significance of two small-market teams reaching the Finals. Tune in for expert predictions and insights on how this series could define the next era of NBA superstars.

OpenPhone
Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba

Betterhelp
This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year

FanDuel
Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

NBA Finals Shocker: Indiana Pacers vs Oklahoma City Thunder. Can small-market teams rewrite basketball history?

Tony East and Rylan Stiles break down this unexpected matchup, analyzing the strengths of both teams. They explore the Pacers' high-octane offense led by Tyrese Haliburton and the Thunder's lockdown defense anchored by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The hosts dissect key strategies, including ball security for Indiana and three-point defense for OKC. Player development takes center stage as both franchises showcase their ability to nurture talent and maximize roster depth.

Tune in for expert insights on how Rick Carlisle and Mark Daigneault might approach this series and predictions on which team will claim their first NBA championship.

OpenPhone
Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba

Betterhelp
This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year

FanDuel
Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

NBA Finals Showdown: Thunder vs. Pacers - Who Has the Edge?

The Oklahoma City Thunder face off against the Indiana Pacers in a thrilling NBA Finals matchup. Rylan Stiles and guest Michael Martin break down the crucial X-factors that could determine the champion. From Rick Carlisle's seasoned coaching to Mark Daigneault's defensive adjustments, every aspect of the series is under the microscope. The hosts analyze how OKC's perimeter defenders might contain Tyrese Haliburton and whether Shai Gilgeous-Alexander can maintain his stellar performance against the Pacers.

Three-point shooting, transition defense, and unexpected hero performances take center stage in this in-depth discussion. Will the Thunder's ability to force turnovers be the game-changer? Can the Pacers' fast-paced style overwhelm OKC?

Tune in for expert insights on the strategies and player matchups that will shape this epic NBA Finals battle.

OpenPhone
Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba

Betterhelp
This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year

FanDuel
Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Thunder vs. Pacers: Clash of Small Market Titans in NBA Finals Showdown

Oklahoma City Thunder's historic 68-win season culminates in an unexpected Finals matchup against the Indiana Pacers. Host Rylan Stiles and guest Brandon Rahbar break down the Thunder's journey, dissecting key X-factors like turnovers and three-point shooting variance. The discussion explores defensive strategies for containing stars Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Tyrese Haliburton, while analyzing the impact of OKC's formidable home-court advantage at Paycom Center. Dive into the significance of two small-market teams reaching the NBA's biggest stage and how their disciplined play could reshape the league's landscape.

Tune in for expert insights on how the Thunder's suffocating defense matches up against the Pacers' high-octane offense in this flyover state Finals spectacle.

WayFair
Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year.

Door Dash
Sign up for DashPass and when any player scores 50+ in a playoff game, DashPass members can grab a free 3PC Crispy Tenders Combo from Wingstop the next day, with a $20+ order and code WINGSTOP50. That’s DashPass: your door to more savings, more flavor, and more ways to win. Terms apply.

• Valid only at participating Wingstop locations. Fees (including service fee), taxes, and gratuity still apply. Orders must have a minimum subtotal of $20, excluding taxes and fees. Offer valid on 4/15/25-6/22 /25 or while supplies last. Valid for one (1) promotional redemption per customer. DoubleDash promotions apply only to your DoubleDash add-on order, not your primary order. DoubleDash orders are not valid for the purchase of alcohol. No cash value. Non-transferable. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code WINGSTOP50 to redeem. See full terms and conditions at drd.sh/qnAXuU

FanDuel
Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Thunder's Finals Journey: A New Rivalry Emerges

Oklahoma City Thunder's path to the NBA Finals has been nothing short of remarkable. Host Rylan Stiles breaks down the team's impressive run, highlighting potential new rivalries and analyzing key matchups. From Anthony Edwards and Chet Holmgren's trash-talking to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's leadership, the Thunder's rise is reshaping the league's landscape. Stiles explores how OKC matches up against potential Finals opponents like the Knicks and Pacers, and discusses Jalen Williams' dark horse candidacy for Finals MVP.

Tune in for expert insights on the Thunder's championship aspirations and how this playoff run could elevate the team's status in the NBA hierarchy.

0:00 Intro: Thunder in NBA Finals, new rival? 5:08 Minnesota Timberwolves as potential new rival 12:46 Thunder's favorable Finals matchup situation 17:52 Comparing Knicks vs Pacers as Finals opponent 22:59 Jalen Williams as potential surprise Finals MVP 27:34 J-Dub's reputation boost from Finals appearance 30:44 Upcoming Thunder content and livestream plans

WayFair
Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year.

Door Dash
Sign up for DashPass and when any player scores 50+ in a playoff game, DashPass members can grab a free 3PC Crispy Tenders Combo from Wingstop the next day, with a $20+ order and code WINGSTOP50. That’s DashPass: your door to more savings, more flavor, and more ways to win. Terms apply.

• Valid only at participating Wingstop locations. Fees (including service fee), taxes, and gratuity still apply. Orders must have a minimum subtotal of $20, excluding taxes and fees. Offer valid on 4/15/25-6/22 /25 or while supplies last. Valid for one (1) promotional redemption per customer. DoubleDash promotions apply only to your DoubleDash add-on order, not your primary order. DoubleDash orders are not valid for the purchase of alcohol. No cash value. Non-transferable. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code WINGSTOP50 to redeem. See full terms and conditions at drd.sh/qnAXuU

FanDuel
Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Oklahoma City Thunder's defense shines as they secure a spot in the NBA Finals, leaving fans and analysts buzzing. How did this young team, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, manage such a feat? Explore the Thunder's dominant defensive strategies that stifled the Minnesota Timberwolves, forcing 21 turnovers and neutralizing Anthony Edwards. Rylan Stiles breaks down the stellar performances of key players like Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, who played pivotal roles in this unexpected rise. The episode also compares the current squad to the 2012 Thunder team, highlighting the strategic brilliance of Sam Presti and the coaching prowess of Mark Daigneault. Join the conversation to uncover how the Thunder's journey to the NBA Finals sets the stage for future success. Listen now for exclusive insights and expert analysis!

0:00 Intro: Thunder advances to NBA Finals 5:05 Thunder's dominant defense breaks Timberwolves 10:44 SGA's stellar performance leads Thunder 15:49 Chet Holmgren's impact on both ends 21:54 Sam Presti's vision comes to fruition 26:58 Comparing the 2012 and current Thunder teams 31:04 Host reflects on show's growth during rebuild

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

WayFair
Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year.

Door Dash
Sign up for DashPass and when any player scores 50+ in a playoff game, DashPass members can grab a free 3PC Crispy Tenders Combo from Wingstop the next day, with a $20+ order and code WINGSTOP50. That’s DashPass: your door to more savings, more flavor, and more ways to win. Terms apply.

• Valid only at participating Wingstop locations. Fees (including service fee), taxes, and gratuity still apply. Orders must have a minimum subtotal of $20, excluding taxes and fees. Offer valid on 4/15/25-6/22 /25 or while supplies last. Valid for one (1) promotional redemption per customer. DoubleDash promotions apply only to your DoubleDash add-on order, not your primary order. DoubleDash orders are not valid for the purchase of alcohol. No cash value. Non-transferable. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code WINGSTOP50 to redeem. See full terms and conditions at drd.sh/qnAXuU

FanDuel
Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Can the Oklahoma City Thunder's Big Three propel them to the NBA Finals? In a thrilling Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals, the Thunder showcased their resilience against the Minnesota Timberwolves, taking a commanding 3-1 series lead. With Jalen Williams' dominant performance, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's near triple-double, and Chet Holmgren's aggressive play, the Thunder's strategy and execution were on full display. Host Rylan Stiles breaks down the key moments, including the crucial contributions from role players like Alex Caruso and Casen Wallace. Discover how the Thunder's evolving tactics and player dynamics are reshaping their playoff journey. Tune in for an in-depth analysis of the Thunder's path to potential NBA glory.

0:00 Intro: Thunder up 3-1 on Timberwolves 5:05 Thunder stars shine as Timberwolves stars dim 10:39 Jalen Williams dominates as Thunder's star 16:45 Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's impressive 40-point performance 22:22 Chet Holmgren's aggressive play and impact 27:57 Mark Daigneault's rotation adjustments pay off 33:03 Outro: Thunder in control, series outlook

WayFair
Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year.

Door Dash
Sign up for DashPass and when any player scores 50+ in a playoff game, DashPass members can grab a free 3PC Crispy Tenders Combo from Wingstop the next day, with a $20+ order and code WINGSTOP50. That’s DashPass: your door to more savings, more flavor, and more ways to win. Terms apply.

• Valid only at participating Wingstop locations. Fees (including service fee), taxes, and gratuity still apply. Orders must have a minimum subtotal of $20, excluding taxes and fees. Offer valid on 4/15/25-6/22 /25 or while supplies last. Valid for one (1) promotional redemption per customer. DoubleDash promotions apply only to your DoubleDash add-on order, not your primary order. DoubleDash orders are not valid for the purchase of alcohol. No cash value. Non-transferable. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code WINGSTOP50 to redeem. See full terms and conditions at drd.sh/qnAXuU

FanDuel
Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)