The NBA Finals are set, and it's a matchup no one predicted: the Oklahoma City Thunder vs. the Indiana Pacers. In this episode of Off the Screen, Jordon, Sid, and Michael break down how we got here and what this Finals clash means for the league.

The crew dives deep into the surprising playoff dominance of the Thunder — a young team built the "right" way through the draft and savvy trades, now on the cusp of a potential dynasty. Despite being ahead of schedule, OKC’s complete health, defensive excellence, and roster depth have propelled them past expectations. But that same dominance has sparked mixed emotions. Sid admits to “hate-watching” OKC, questioning their lack of “aura" despite their undeniable success.

Meanwhile, the Pacers are enjoying a thrilling underdog run. Led by Haliburton’s supercomputer-level basketball IQ and guided by Rick Carlisle's masterclass coaching, Indiana knocked out elite teams like Milwaukee, Cleveland, and New York with teamwork and energy. Their run is compared to the 2023 Kings — scrappy, unselfish, and full of vibes.

The hosts also explore Paul George’s strange legacy: how his trades sparked the rise of both Finals teams. From OKC’s asset-rich rebuild (including the SGA heist) to Indiana's resurgence via Sabonis and Haliburton, George's name is everywhere in this NBA story.

The episode ends with bold Finals predictions: Thunder in five, maybe six—unless Sid’s petty Pacers pick in six comes true. One thing's for sure: both teams represent the future of the league, and this matchup is a dream for basketball nerds.