Pascal Siakam’s Veteran Leadership: The X-Factor in Indiana’s Finals Run

By Edcel Panganiban June 21, 2025 19:30

As the Indiana Pacers prepare for a decisive Game 7 against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2025 NBA Finals, much of the spotlight falls on their star guard Tyrese Haliburton and the dynamic Shai Gilgeous-Alexander-led Thunder. Yet, a quieter but equally vital force has been Pascal Siakam, whose veteran leadership and consistent production have emerged as the X-factor fueling Indiana’s surprising Finals run.

Siakam, the 30-year-old power forward, has been a model of steady excellence throughout the 2024-25 season and into the postseason. Averaging 20.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game during the regular season, Siakam’s efficiency stands out he shot an impressive 51.9% from the field and nearly 39% from three-point range, ranking him among the league’s top forwards in scoring and shooting accuracy. His ability to stretch the floor with timely three-pointers and attack the basket with relentless energy has provided the Pacers with a versatile weapon on both ends of the court.

In the Finals, Siakam’s impact transcends the box score. In Game 6’s commanding 108-91 victory that forced a winner-takes-all Game 7, Siakam posted a double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds, along with three assists in 32 minutes, showcasing his all-around game and physical presence inside. His emphatic dunks and clutch three-pointers have energized the Pacers and demoralized opponents, while his veteran savvy helps stabilize the team during critical stretches.

Head coach Rick Carlisle has repeatedly praised Siakam’s leadership. “Pascal brings a calm confidence that our younger guys feed off,” Carlisle said after Game 6. “He knows how to manage the pace, make the right plays, and set the tone physically and mentally. That kind of leadership is invaluable in a Finals series.”

Siakam’s influence is especially crucial given the Pacers’ relatively young core. While Tyrese Haliburton has dazzled with his playmaking and scoring, and Bennedict Mathurin has provided explosive offense off the bench, Siakam’s experience and poise help keep the team grounded. His ability to read defenses and make smart decisions under pressure complements the Pacers’ fast-paced style. As Haliburton himself noted, “Having Pascal on the floor is like having a coach out there. He knows when to push, when to slow it down, and how to get everyone involved.”

Statistically, Siakam’s consistency is remarkable. Over the 2024-25 regular season, he logged 78 games, averaging 32.7 minutes with 20.2 points on 51.9% shooting, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. His postseason performances have mirrored that reliability, often stepping up in high-leverage moments. For example, in earlier playoff rounds, Siakam’s scoring bursts and defensive intensity helped the Pacers overcome favored opponents en route to the Finals.

Beyond numbers, Siakam’s veteran presence has been a stabilizing force amid the pressure cooker environment of the NBA Finals. His leadership in the locker room and on the court fosters resilience and belief within the team. The Pacers’ ability to force a Game 7 after trailing in the series speaks volumes about their mental toughness, much of which can be attributed to Siakam’s influence.

Pascal Siakam’s veteran leadership is a critical component of Indiana’s Finals run. His blend of scoring efficiency, rebounding, playmaking, and steady composure under pressure elevates the Pacers’ overall performance. As the series reaches its climax, Siakam’s role as the team’s emotional and tactical anchor may well determine whether Indiana can complete one of the biggest upsets in recent NBA history.