This encapsulation, Pacers Seize NBA Finals Momentum: Inside Indiana’s Game 3 Masterclass Over the Thunder, is pulled with permission from this video by Nik Land.
Pacers Seize NBA Finals Momentum: Indiana Takes the Lead
The Indiana Pacers have captured the lead in the NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder by securing a 2-1 advantage after Game 3. Playing on their home court, the Pacers electrified the crowd with a series of tactical plays. This game was a showcase of the strategic depth both teams brought to the floor. Let’s dive into some standout plays and sets that defined this game.
Pacers’ Double Drag Action
One of the most effective plays for the Pacers was utilizing the double drag screens to get Tyrese Haliburton moving. Haliburton thrives in space, and this setup allows him to avoid physical confrontation, utilizing his agility and vision instead. The play starts with screens, commonly referred to as “77”, set by Ben Sheppard and Obi Toppin. It funnels into a dribble handoff that enables Haliburton to make long skips, enhancing field vision and execution. When Shephard sets up the screen for Haliburton, the ball is worked around skillfully, ending in open opportunities to shoot or maneuver.
Thunder’s Stagger Action
On the opposing side, the Thunder leaned on their consistent stagger action set. This play involves creating a layered system of screens, known as stagger screens, to free up players for clearer shots. The Thunder often initiate this with a horns setup – two players positioned at the free-throw line to break up defensive pressure and start the play. This tactic focused on enabling their primary playmakers, like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, to capitalize on opportunities and create options for teammates, keeping defenders on their toes.
Use of Elevators by the Pacers
The Pacers expertly ran a baseline out-of-bounds play using an elevator screen setup. This involves two players acting like elevator doors at the top of the key, which close behind the shooter to prevent defender follow-through. This play was executed with precision by Myles Turner and Obi Toppin, aiming to free Ben Sheppard for a clean shot. Although the attempt didn’t result in a basket, the effectiveness of the maneuver demonstrated the Pacers’ potential to exploit defensive matchups.
Thunder Embrace the Pick and Roll
Isaiah Hartenstein of the Thunder made an impact with his step-up screens in crucial moments. Differing from a side pick, his screens angled toward the baseline facilitated forward momentum and forced defensive switches. This allowed for optimal spacing and downhill driving, especially benefiting their ball-handlers like Gilgeous-Alexander. The split-second misdirection and mechanical advantage demanded defensive adjustments and highlighted Thunder’s versatility in pick-and-roll situations.
Pacers’ Corner 45 Cut
In unassuming yet effective execution, the Pacers reaped rewards from the corner get action paired with a 45-cut. This maneuver is honed for cutting lanes and is a hallmark of T.J. McConnell’s playmaking. It exploited defensive lapses by drawing attention through misleading dribbles and quick, angular movements, leaving opposing guards playing catch-up. Their innate understanding of spatial dynamics was on display, showcasing improvisation as much as choreographed strategy.
Thunder’s Flat Go Set
The Thunder’s flat go screen action gave rise to thrilling opportunities. The beauty of the ghost screen lies in its deception; acting like a screen play before diverging into latent options – challenging defenses to read and react swiftly. When executed with players like Jalen Williams or Chet Holmgren, it offered a significant edge, by creating gaps to exploit or passing lanes refocused for efficiency.
Conclusion
This thrilling Game 3 of the NBA Finals highlighted how both the Pacers and Thunder have wielded strategic routes and misdirection to create scoring opportunities. From Haliburton’s navigation across double drags to the Thunder’s stagger innovations, each team demonstrated the high level of playmaking and adaptability required at this stage. As fans eagerly await the rest of the series, these back-and-forth dynamics promise an enthralling competition of tactical prowess and athletic skill.
