As the Indiana Pacers prepare to host the Oklahoma City Thunder for Game 4 of the NBA Finals tonight, June 13, 2025, at 8:30 PM ET, the availability of key players is a major point of discussion. The Pacers currently hold a 2-1 series lead, and a win tonight would give them a commanding 3-1 advantage. All eyes are on whether Bennedict Mathurin and Aaron Nesmith will be able to contribute.

Bennedict Mathurin's Status

Bennedict Mathurin is confirmed to be playing in Game 4. Mathurin's performance in Game 3 was stellar, as he led all scorers with 27 points coming off the bench. He shot an efficient 9-for-12 from the field, including 2-for-3 from beyond the arc. His energy and scoring ability provided a significant boost to the Pacers. Mathurin has been eager to contribute after missing last year's playoff run due to a torn labrum. He has been preparing for this opportunity, and his Game 3 performance was a testament to his readiness.

Aaron Nesmith's Status

Aaron Nesmith is also expected to play in Game 4. There were concerns about Nesmith after he sustained a right ankle sprain during Game 3 against the New York Knicks in the previous series, but he has been cleared to play. In that game, Nesmith finished with eight points and seven rebounds. Nesmith's availability is crucial for the Pacers, as he plays a vital role on both ends of the court.

Pacers' Injury Report

While Mathurin and Nesmith are set to play, the Pacers will be without a couple of depth pieces. Jarace Walker is out with a right ankle sprain, and Isaiah Jackson is sidelined with a torn Achilles tendon. Myles Turner, who had been battling an illness, is off the injury report and is expected to play, which is a significant boost for Indiana.

OKC Thunder's Injury Report

The Thunder's injury report is relatively clean. Nikola Topic is the only player listed as out, as he continues to recover from a torn ACL sustained before the 2024 NBA Draft. The Thunder will rely on their key players, including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren, to bounce back and tie the series.

Game Overview

The Pacers are aiming to capitalize on their home-court advantage and take a commanding lead in the series. In Game 3, they outscored the Thunder 32-18 in the fourth quarter, demonstrating their ability to close out games. Tyrese Haliburton nearly had a triple-double with 22 points, 11 assists, and 9 rebounds, while Pascal Siakam added 21 points.

The Thunder need to address their turnover issues and improve their free-throw shooting. In Game 3, they committed 19 turnovers, which contributed to their loss. Jalen Williams led the team with 26 points, while Gilgeous-Alexander had 24 points.

Keys to the Game

For the Pacers, maintaining their balanced offensive attack and continuing to get strong contributions from their bench will be crucial. Defensively, they need to contain Gilgeous-Alexander and limit the Thunder's second-chance opportunities.

For the Thunder, reducing turnovers, improving free-throw shooting, and getting more consistent scoring from players other than Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams and Holmgren will be essential. They also need to find ways to disrupt the Pacers' offense and control the tempo of the game.

Game 4 promises to be a highly competitive matchup with both teams battling for a crucial win in the NBA Finals.