Bets to Make on Game 5 – Crickbee

The NBA Finals series between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers is tied at 2-2, making Game 5 a pivotal matchup. As the series heads back to Oklahoma City, here’s a look at some of the best bets to consider for this crucial game.

Game 5 Odds and Trends

Thunder Favored: Oklahoma City is a significant favorite at home for Game 5, with spreads generally around -9.0 to -9.5 points. The moneyline for the Thunder is typically in the range of -400 to -450, while the Pacers are around +310 to +333.

Public Leans Pacers to Cover: Despite the Thunder being strong favorites, a large percentage of public bets (around 73%) and handle (around 59%) are on the Pacers to cover the spread. This suggests bettors expect Indiana to keep the game relatively close.

Over/Under Trend: The total for Game 5 has generally opened around 223.5 and has seen movement up to 224 or 224.5. A majority of the bets (67%) and handle (61%) are on the Over, indicating an expectation of a higher-scoring game.

Pacers Against the Spread: Historically, the Pacers have been strong against the spread following a playoff loss this season, going 5-0 straight up and 5-0 against the spread in such situations.

Best Bets for Game 5

1. Indiana Pacers +9.5 (or higher)

Given the public sentiment and Indiana’s history of covering after a loss, taking the Pacers with the points looks like a strong play. Even if the Thunder win, Indiana has shown resilience and the ability to keep games competitive, especially with the series tied.

2. Over 224.5 Total Points

The betting patterns on the total suggest a high-scoring affair. Both teams have shown offensive firepower at times in this series. While defensive adjustments can happen, the trend points towards the Over being a favorable bet.

3. Player Prop Bets

Player props offer specific value based on individual performance. Here are a few to consider:

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Under 34.5 Points: While SGA is the MVP and capable of huge scoring nights, there’s a sentiment that the Pacers’ defense has made him work hard, potentially limiting his overall scoring ceiling in this high-pressure game. The public is leaning towards the under on this prop.

Luguentz Dort Under 3.5 Rebounds: Dort’s rebounding activity has been questioned by bettors, with value seen in the under for his rebound line.

Pascal Siakam Under 19.5 Points: Siakam has been streaky in the series, and there’s skepticism about his offensive consistency in a road game with high stakes.

Tyrese Haliburton Over 17.5 Points: After a slow start, Haliburton has been more aggressive in recent games. His increased assertiveness and ball-handling duties make the over on his points a potentially good play.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Under 6.5 Assists: The Pacers have focused on limiting SGA’s playmaking, and he had zero assists in Game 4. While this could be an anomaly, the trend of fewer assists is worth noting.

Chet Holmgren Double-Double (+125): Holmgren has been a strong rebounder in the series, especially in Games 3 and 4. With increased minutes and Indiana’s frontcourt struggles, he is a good candidate for a double-double (points and rebounds).

Jalen Williams Over 22.5 Points: Williams has stepped up as a scoring threat, particularly in Games 3 and 4. His usage rate has been high, and he’s finding ways to score even without relying heavily on three-pointers.