The National Basketball Association (NBA) is gearing up for another thrilling encounter as the Oklahoma City Thunder prepare to face off against the Indiana Pacers in what promises to be a captivating Friday night spectacle. This highly anticipated clash is scheduled to tip off at 8:00 pm Eastern Time, setting the stage for an intense battle between two teams with contrasting season records.
Team Form and Key Player Dynamics
The Oklahoma City Thunder enter this matchup with a formidable track record, having secured victory in 37 out of their 45 games this season. Their success has been largely driven by the exceptional performances of star players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luguentz Dort, who have consistently delivered on both ends of the court. However, the Thunder will be navigating this game without several key contributors, including Alex Caruso and Ajay Mitchell, who have been sidelined due to injuries.
On the opposing side, the Indiana Pacers have faced a more challenging season, managing to win only 10 of their 45 contests. Despite their struggles, the team possesses talented athletes such as Andrew Nembhard and Aaron Nesmith, who have shown flashes of brilliance and could potentially lead the Pacers to an upset victory. Unfortunately, Indiana will also be missing crucial players like Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Mathurin, both ruled out with injuries, which significantly impacts their rotational depth and strategic options.
Game Details: When and Where to Watch
The Oklahoma City Thunder will welcome the Indiana Pacers to the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, for this Friday night showdown. The game is set to commence at 8:00 p.m. ET on January 23, 2026, with exclusive television coverage provided by FDSOK and FDSIN. For viewers preferring online streaming, the matchup will be available on platforms such as Fubo and Prime Video, ensuring fans can catch all the action from anywhere.
Expected Starting Lineups
Oklahoma City Thunder:
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Point Guard)
- Luguentz Dort (Shooting Guard)
- Cason Wallace (Small Forward)
- Chet Holmgren (Power Forward)
- Jaylin Williams (Center)
Indiana Pacers:
- Andrew Nembhard (Point Guard)
- Ben Sheppard (Shooting Guard)
- Aaron Nesmith (Small Forward)
- Pascal Siakam (Power Forward)
- Jay Huff (Center)
Injury Report for Both Teams
Oklahoma City Thunder:
- Alex Caruso - OUT (adductor injury)
- Aaron Wiggins - OUT (groin issue)
- Isaiah Hartenstein - OUT (calf strain)
- Ajay Mitchell - OUT (abdominal strain)
- Jalen Williams - OUT (hamstring problem)
- Nikola Topic - OUT (testicular cancer)
- Thomas Sorber - OUT (ACL injury)
Indiana Pacers:
- Tyrese Haliburton - OUT (ACL injury)
- Bennedict Mathurin - OUT (thumb injury)
- Obi Toppin - OUT (foot issue)
- Quenton Jackson - QUESTIONABLE (ankle sprain)
Game Prediction and Statistical Analysis
This season, the Oklahoma City Thunder have demonstrated offensive prowess by scoring 226.5 points in 24 of their 45 games, showcasing their ability to put up big numbers. Interestingly, the Indiana Pacers have matched this scoring output in 22 of their 45 contests, making this matchup particularly intriguing and difficult to predict with certainty.
The Thunder boast an impressive roster highlighted by standout performers. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been nothing short of spectacular, averaging 32 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game this season. His teammate, Chet Holmgren, has also made significant contributions with averages of 17.8 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, providing crucial support in the frontcourt.
For the Indiana Pacers, efficient players like Pascal Siakam and Andrew Nembhard will be key to their chances. Siakam has been a consistent force, averaging 23.8 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game while helping the team stay competitive. Nembhard, on the other hand, has delivered solid numbers with 17.4 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 7.1 assists per game, demonstrating his versatility and playmaking abilities.
Given the Thunder's superior record and home-court advantage, they enter as favorites. However, the Pacers' resilience and the potential for standout performances from players like Siakam could make this game closer than the records suggest. The extensive injury lists for both teams add an element of unpredictability, making this Friday night clash a must-watch for NBA enthusiasts.
