NBA finals game 1 prediction 2025

The NBA Finals Game 1 is one of the most anticipated basketball events of the year. Fans and bettors alike are eager to see how the series will begin — and where value lies in the odds. This opening clash often sets the tone for the entire championship. Momentum, injuries, and tactical adjustments all play a role in shaping outcomes. That’s why expert picks and betting strategies are essential when evaluating Game 1 lines and markets.

NBA finals game 1 odds 2025

Game 1 of the NBA Finals always attracts massive attention betting from sportsbooks. Opening lines favour the team with better regular-season and playoff form, but momentum plays a key role in shifting the odds.

With the Conference Finals now set, the race to the NBA championship has taken shape. The Indiana Pacers will face the New York Knicks in the East, while the Oklahoma City Thunder meet the Minnesota Timberwolves in the West. Based on current odds and performance, the Thunder and Pacers are the frontrunners to reach the NBA Finals.

If these predictions hold, here’s what to expect in Game 1 of the NBA Finals 2025:

The Thunder are expected to open as slight favourites due to their strong playoff run and depth in both scoring and defence. Their Game 7 victory over the defending champions, Denver Nuggets, has positioned them as a serious title contender.

The Pacers, however, have shocked many by dominating the Eastern Conference, including a 4–1 series win over Cleveland. Their aggressive offensive strategy and balanced lineup make them a dangerous underdog.

Thunder by 3–5 points in Game 1, with a moderate total points line. Expect a close battle with strong defensive sequences and late-game execution being the key.

How to bet on NBA final game 1

There are several popular betting markets available for Game 1 of the NBA Finals:

• Prediction Moneyline: Bet on which team wins outright.
• Spread prediction: Bet on the point difference. Example prediction: Celtics -3.5 means they must win by 4+ points.
• Over/Under prediction: Bet on total points scored by both teams.
• Prediction Player Props: Bet on individual performance stats (points, assists, rebounds).

Best player prop bet often include stars like Jayson Tatum over 26.5 points or Nikola Jokić over 10.5 rebounds. Props offer strong value, especially when focused on consistent postseason performers.

Live bet is also popular during Game 1 — it allows reacting to shifts in momentum, injuries, or hot shooting streaks. Expert bettors often place combo parlays using props and spreads to maximise returns.

Using Vivatbet’s euro-based sportsbook betting, you can easily build multi-leg bets and access boosted odds markets during the finals.

Game 1 NBA finals 2025 details

With the 2025 NBA Finals just around the corner, fans and analysts are shifting focus to the likely showdown between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers, two of the strongest teams in this year’s playoffs. The NBA Finals are scheduled to begin on June 5, with Game 1 expected to take place at the home court of the Western Conference champions — Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, based on their higher seed.

While Boston and Denver were early favourites, both teams were eliminated in the conference semifinals. Now, the Thunder have emerged as the team to beat after an impressive seven-game series win over the defending champions, the Denver Nuggets. Meanwhile, the Pacers stunned Cleveland and then New York with high-scoring performances and clutch plays.

The Finals will follow the traditional 2-2-1-1-1 format, meaning the higher seed (Thunder) will host Games 1, 2, 5, and 7 if necessary.

Expect a strategic, high-paced opener. The Thunder’s explosive backcourt and physical paint presence will challenge Indiana’s spread offense and agile defensive switches. Experts predict a close contest, with both teams relying heavily on their starting lineups and seeking early dominance in transition plays.

Key Storylines for Game 1:

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Tyrese Haliburton: A matchup of elite playmakers and floor generals.
• Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren will need to contain Indiana’s versatile forwards.
• Bench depth could be the deciding factor if either team struggles with foul trouble or fatigue.

Betting markets are already showing tight odds, with Oklahoma slightly favoured. However, Indiana’s underdog narrative and offensive momentum make them a dangerous opponent in Game 1.