The NBA Conference Finals continues on Thursday with Game 5 between the Thunder and the Timberwolves, followed by Game 5 between the Knicks and the Pacers. The Thunder will be looking to close out the West on their home deck, while the Pacers will be out to spoil the part at the Garden and secure the East.
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NBA Conference Finals Betting Tips: Game 5s
Minnesota Timberwolves at OKC Thunder (Thursday 10:30am AEST)
Series Score: Thunder lead 3-1
The Oklahoma City Thunder return home for Game 5 with a commanding 3-1 series lead, on the cusp of their first NBA Finals appearance since 2012.2 Their thrilling 128-126 road victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 4 underscored their potent offensive capabilities and resilience, particularly after a heavy defeat in Game 3. For the Timberwolves, it's a do-or-die situation as they fight to extend their season.
Game 4 was a high-scoring, closely contested affair. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was exceptional for Oklahoma City, delivering a 40-point, 9-rebound, and 10-assist near triple-double.3 Jalen Williams provided crucial support with 34 points, impressively shooting 6-for-9 from three-point range, while Chet Holmgren added 21 points.4 The Thunder, as a team, shot a strong 43.2% from deep (16-for-37). For Minnesota, Nickeil Alexander-Walker (23 points, 5 threes) and Jaden McDaniels (22 points) led their scoring, but Anthony Edwards was held to 16 points on 5-for-13 shooting.5 Minnesota also struggled with 21 turnovers, which proved costly.
As the series shifts back to Oklahoma City, the offensive firepower displayed by both teams, especially the Thunder's efficiency in Game 4, sets the stage for another potentially high-scoring encounter. Minnesota, facing elimination, will need a desperate offensive surge led by a resurgent Anthony Edwards and better ball protection. Given the recent offensive explosions and the stakes involved, expect both teams to push the pace, making the total points going over 220.5 a strong possibility once again in this pivotal Game 5.
Over 220.5 Points
$1.90 (1.5 Units)
Indiana Pacers at New York Knicks (Friday 10:00am AEST)
Series Score: Pacers lead 3-1
The New York Knicks return to Madison Square Garden for a do-or-die Game 5, trailing the Indiana Pacers 3-1 in the Eastern Conference Finals. Indiana seized control with a dominant 130-121 victory on their home court in Game 4, an offensive showcase spearheaded by Tyrese Haliburton's historic triple-double of 32 points, 12 rebounds, and 15 assists without a single turnover. Pascal Siakam ably supported with 30 points as the Pacers shot an efficient 51% from the field.
In that high-scoring Game 4, the Knicks received 31 points from Jalen Brunson, while Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 24 points and 12 rebounds. Despite shooting a respectable 42.9% from three-point range, New York was undone by 17 turnovers and struggled to contain Indiana's potent attack. The Pacers' offensive clinic also saw them commit only seven turnovers, highlighting their efficiency.
Now, back in New York and facing elimination, the Knicks are -4.5 point favourites. For them to cover this spread, a significantly improved defensive performance is paramount. They must disrupt Indiana’s offensive rhythm and force more mistakes than they did in Game 4. With their season on the line, expect a desperate and focused effort from the Knicks. A raucous home crowd and a potential bounce-back defensive intensity, coupled with Brunson’s scoring prowess, should see the Knicks cover the -4.5 spread and force a Game 6.
Knicks –4.5
$1.90 (1 Unit)
