About this episode
Munaf Manji and Mackenzie Rivers break down NBA Game 7. Best bets as always. The podcast episode of RJ Bell’s Dream Preview hosted by Munaf Manji and Mackenzie Rivers dives into the upcoming NBA Finals Game 7 between the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder, focusing on Game 6 recap, player and team statistics, Game 7 historical trends, and predictions. Munaf begins by acknowledging the unexpected extension to Game 7, joking that rapper Drake may be responsible after placing a massive bet on the Thunder in Game 6. Mackenzie reflects on his incorrect prediction and credits Indiana’s resilience, noting they’ve consistently defied expectations. In Game 6, the Pacers delivered a balanced team performance. Tyrese Halliburton, playing through injury, contributed 14 points and 5 assists in 23 minutes. Four starters reached double figures, while Obi Toppin scored 20 off the bench. TJ McConnell added 12 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists. The Thunder, in contrast, had a dismal shooting night, hitting only 8 of 30 from three-point range, with starters going 1 for 13. They managed just 91 points, their lowest of the season. Defensively, the Pacers adjusted from full-court pressure in Game 4 to a more strategic, trap-heavy defense in Game 6. Mackenzie compares McConnell’s impact to J.J. Barea in 2011, praising Rick Carlisle’s coaching and noting that he’s achieved more with less than most NBA coaches. Munaf suggests Carlisle’s legacy could be cemented with a second improbable championship, citing his 2011 win over Miami’s Big Three. Looking at Game 7, the Thunder are favored by 7.5 points with a total of 214.5. Historical trends support a close contest: since 2002, 62% of Game 7s have gone under the total, with average victory margins at just 6.9 points. Of the past ten NBA Finals Game 7s, only one had a margin over 7.5. Munaf notes that OKC’s strong home record and MVP-caliber season from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) bring added pressure, while Indiana is seen as playing with house money. Mackenzie believes the Thunder’s legacy burden may weigh heavier on SGA than any player, contrasting Halliburton’s low-risk, high-reward scenario. Referee influence, especially the likely assignment of Scott Foster, could shape the game. Foster is known for calling more fouls and previously officiated two Finals Game 7s, including the 2010 Celtics-Lakers game where LA shot 37 free throws. Munaf warns that if Foster is officiating, foul counts may spike. Both hosts back the Pacers +7.5 as their best bet. They emphasize Indiana’s ability to stay within striking distance, citing the last four Finals teams that forced Game 7s after trailing 3–2 all won the title. Regarding props, Munaf favors Pascal Siakam’s rebound over (7.5), noting consistent double-digit boards and high minutes. SGA and Caruso are tipped to exceed 2.5 combined steals and blocks, given the high-pressure context. Mackenzie leans under on Halliburton’s 15.5 point line, which is near season-low, but suggests parlaying Halliburton overs with a Pacers win if expecting an upset. In closing, the hosts predict a tight, gritty Game 7 in line with NBA history. Both expect Indiana to cover and potentially win, citing momentum, strategic flexibility, and psychological freedom versus the high stakes confronting OKC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices