Indiana Pacers vs. OKC Thunder Predictions, Odds and Best Bets For 10/23

The Indiana Pacers open their season tonight at home against the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder. It’s the first meeting since last year’s Finals, which the Thunder won in seven games. Oklahoma City already has one win under its belt after edging Houston in double overtime earlier this week.

Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander led the way and remains the focal point of their attack, supported by Chet Holmgren’s rim protection and Jalen Williams’ two‑way play. Indiana enters this matchup short‑handed. Tyrese Haliburton is out for the season with an Achilles injury, leaving Andrew Nembhard to run the point. Bennedict Mathurin will be asked to take on more scoring responsibility, while Pascal Siakam provides veteran stability in the frontcourt.

History: Made. Banner: Raised. pic.twitter.com/aipg6AwDTJ
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) October 21, 2025

Game Details

Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Date: Thursday, October 23, 2025
Location: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, Indiana
TV Channel: ESPN / Bally Sports Indiana
Streaming: Peacock / Fubo / NBA League Pass

Recommended Bets and Updated Odds

Market	Selection	FanDuel	BetMGM
Winning margin	Thunder by 1–5	+400	+450
Double-double	Chet Holmgren	+190	+200
3+ made threes	Aaron Nesmith	+116	+130

Analysis and Rationale

Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander remains the driving force for Oklahoma City, and the Thunder enter this matchup with the confidence of defending champions. Their roster continuity is a major strength, with Chet Holmgren anchoring the paint and Jalen Williams providing versatility on both ends. The Thunder’s preseason and opening‑night win over Houston showed their ability to close tight games, but turnovers and reliance on SGA’s late‑game heroics are areas to monitor.

The Indiana Pacers, meanwhile, begins the season without Tyrese Haliburton, leaving Andrew Nembhard to run the point and Bennedict Mathurin to shoulder more of the scoring load. Pascal Siakam is the balancer, but the Pacers’ depth will be tested against a Thunder team that thrives on pace and defensive pressure. While Indiana’s home court offers energy, Oklahoma City’s balance, star power, and proven ability to execute in crunch time give them the edge.

Indiana Pacers vs. OKC Thunder Prediction

Oklahoma City already has momentum after their double‑overtime win over Houston, with Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander leading the charge and Chet Holmgren anchoring the defense. Their depth and balance give them multiple ways to control the game.

The Indiana Pacers, without Tyrese Haliburton, will lean heavily on Pascal Siakam and Bennedict Mathurin, but consistent shot creation remains a concern. The Pacers’ home crowd should keep them competitive early, yet the Thunder’s star power and proven late‑game execution make them the stronger side.

Pick: Thunder to win