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Is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander playing tonight? (Image Source - Getty Images)
The Oklahoma City Thunder received the best possible news ahead of Game 2 of the 2025 NBA Finals against the Indiana Pacers - superstar guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander enters the matchup fully healthy with no injury concerns.
The reigning MVP has been cleared to play without restrictions, giving the Thunder their most dangerous weapon at full strength as they look to even the series.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's dominant playoff run continues
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been the picture of durability throughout the 2025 postseason: - Played every game since the conference semifinals - Averaging 32.7 points per game in playoffs - Dropped 40 points in Western Conference Finals - Scored 38 points in Game 1 of NBA Finals (3rd highest scoring debut in Finals history) His ability to maintain elite production while handling heavy minutes has been crucial to Oklahoma City's championship push.
The Thunder's offense flows through Gilgeous-Alexander, whose combination of scoring, playmaking and clutch performances makes him nearly unstoppable when healthy.
Full Thunder injury report for Game 2
The Thunder's injury situation couldn't be cleaner for this critical Finals matchup:
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander | Available | No injury |
Nikola Topic | Out | Knee injury |
Rest of roster | Available | No injuries |
Rookie Nikola Topic remains the only Thunder player sidelined, meaning Oklahoma City has its full complement of weapons ready to support Gilgeous-Alexander.
This health advantage could prove decisive against a Pacers team that will need to throw everything at slowing down the MVP.
Why Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's health matters most
Several factors make Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's clean bill of health so important for the Thunder: - Leads team in scoring, assists and clutch time production - Draws more fouls than any other Thunder player - Plays elite defense when needed most - Has shown no signs of fatigue despite heavy minutes The Pacers tried multiple defensive schemes against him in Game 1, but his 38-point outburst proved that even elite defenders struggle to contain him when he's at full strength.
With no injury limitations, Gilgeous-Alexander can maintain his aggressive playing style without hesitation.
What to expect from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in Game 2
Based on his current form and health status, Thunder fans can anticipate: - Another high-usage game with 35+ minutes - Continued attacks on the rim to draw fouls - Potential defensive assignments on Pacers guards - Late-game takeover ability if score remains close The Pacers will likely adjust their defensive approach, but Gilgeous-Alexander has shown all postseason that he can adapt to whatever opponents throw at him.
His health allows him to play with the physicality and endurance required to withstand increased defensive attention.Also read: Will Chet Holmgren play tonight in NBA Finals Game 2 vs Indiana Pacers? Latest update on the OKC Thunder star's injury report (June 8, 2025)With the series hanging in the balance, the Thunder can take comfort knowing their best player enters Game 2 at 100% - a luxury few teams have in the grueling NBA Finals. Gilgeous-Alexander's availability gives Oklahoma City its best chance to even the series before heading back home.