OKC Thunder Recap and Notes

Hartenstein chipped in nine points (3-5 FG, 3-3 FT), nine rebounds and one steal in 17 minutes during Thursday’s 111-110 loss to the Pacers in Game 1 of the NBA Finals.

Hartenstein moved to the bench, presumably as a result of Indiana’s smaller lineup. The Pacers’ rotation can switch out on defense, meaning the benefits of running a two-big lineup for the Thunder are somewhat negated. Despite the loss, the decision appeared to be a positive one until the final second of the game. Now trailing 1-0, Oklahoma City will look to bounce back Sunday before the series shifts to Indiana.

Wallace posted six points (3-9 FG, 0-3 3Pt), two rebounds, one assist, one block and one steal across 33 minutes during Thursday’s 111-110 loss to the Pacers in Game 1 of the NBA Finals.

Wallace moved into the starting lineup for Game 1, replacing Isaiah Hartenstein, who moved to the bench. This move was based purely on the matchup, with the coaching staff opting to go small to counter the Pacers’ interchangeable lineup. Despite the promotion, Wallace wasn’t particularly impactful on the stat sheet. It remains to be seen whether he will remain in the starting lineup for Game 2 on Sunday.

Holmgren ended Thursday’s 111-110 loss to the Pacers in Game 1 of the NBA Finals with six points (2-9 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 2-2 FT), six rebounds and one block across 24 minutes.

Holmgren was barely noticeable Thursday, putting up easily his worst performance of the postseason. Prior to the Game 1 loss, Holmgren had scored double digits in nine straight games, while contributing above-average defensive numbers. Thursday’s loss sees the Thunder now facing what could be considered a must-win game Sunday, when Holmgren and the Thunder will look to get back on track.