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OKLAHOMA CITY— The championship series is currently balanced at two wins each, leaving the trophy tantalizingly up for grabs. This scenario creates the need for a game-changer, a standout who can lead either the Indiana Pacers or Oklahoma City Thunder to victory.
Such a player would stand a significant chance of earning two trophies.
The outcome of this season’s Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP award could hinge on which player steps up in the upcoming two games—or possibly three if the series extends to a seventh match. It could be Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Tyrese Haliburton, or perhaps a surprise candidate who makes a late-game surge.
The games thus far have been competitive and filled with drama, and if this trend continues, the MVP honors might go to the player who excels during the fourth quarter and the closing moments. That’s typically when legends are made and champions shine.
At this point, Shai is leading the MVP race, having showcased his prowess in Game 4. However, others are closing in and could potentially unseat him.
One critical statistic to note: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 15 points in the fourth quarter of Game 4, which is not only his highest in any quarter of this series but also the most he has scored in any quarter this postseason.
What others are saying: “We’ve seen him perform like this before. We recognize that’s the kind of player he is. Still, it’s impressive. He’s placing himself in a rare category of players with a finish like that.” — Thunder forward Chet Holmgren commenting on Shai’s fourth quarter in Game 4.
2025 Finals stats: 32.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.8 assists
His case: Shai is scoring approximately the same number of points in this series as he did during the regular season. Although his efficiency isn’t quite up to par, he is drawing significant attention from the Pacers’ defense. When he finds his rhythm for pull-up mid-range shots, he poses a considerable challenge for Indiana.
The series remains tied largely due to Shai’s formidable fourth quarter performance in Game 4. Without his standout play during that period, the Thunder could find themselves in a precarious situation. They relied on and received an MVP-level display from the reigning award holder.
2025 Finals stats: 17.8 points, 6.0 rebounds, 7.5 assists
Take a look at all angles of Tyrese Haliburton’s standout plays from Game 4 of the NBA Finals.
His case: Despite a subpar fourth quarter in Game 4 where he couldn’t provide his usual late-game flair, Haliburton continues to be the focal point for the Pacers and their most reliable all-around performer. He’s finding the right balance between facilitating plays and scoring, and when his decision-making is sharp, the Pacers thrive offensively.
Interestingly, Haliburton has attempted free throws in only one game of the series, limiting his scoring opportunities and allowing OKC to avoid foul trouble with their players. He’s likely to strive for more aggressive drives to the basket, drawing fouls and getting more free throw attempts.
2025 Finals stats: 22.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4.3 assists
Jalen Williams scored 27 points in OKC’s victory in Game 4.
His case: Williams has shown consistent growth in his performance since the series started, and with Shai drawing heavy defensive focus, he has been able to capitalize on those openings at times. His best moments come when he attacks off the dribble and transitions quickly, although he is converting just 40% of his shots.
Defensively, Williams has his hands full—usually guarding Pascal Siakam. This demands that he maintains high energy on both ends of the floor. He successfully defended Siakam in the fourth quarter of Game 4, preventing the Pacers’ forward from breaking free.
2025 Finals stats: 18.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, 4.0 assists
His case: Siakam has had stretches where he dominated games, placing the Pacers in favorable positions to win. He is the primary scoring option and can wreak havoc in the paint or with his mid-range fadeaway.
Additionally, he is Indiana’s top rebounder. With Myles Turner struggling to secure boards, the Pacers rely on Siakam’s presence close to the basket, particularly against opponents like Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein, both of whom have a height advantage.
2025 Finals stats: 14.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.5 steals
Alex Caruso’s experience in championship scenarios shone in Game 4 for OKC.
His case: Caruso has been instrumental in both of OKC’s victories, which is impressive for a player coming off the bench. In each of those games, he made significant contributions at both ends, sealing passing options and creating turnovers while racking up 20 points.
This is precisely why Oklahoma City pursued Caruso in a trade with Chicago last summer—to secure a defensive catalyst and former NBA champion (Lakers, 2020) known for his relentless effort. His competitive spirit is evident, particularly when facing demanding assignments.
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Shaun Powell has reported on the NBA for over 25 years. You can reach him via email here, explore his archival work here, and follow him on X.
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