PREVIEW: The NBA Finals rematch between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers unfolds Thursday night with a dramatically altered landscape for both franchises. This season opener for Indiana comes with significant changes, as they'll be without star point guard Tyrese Haliburton, who is out for the entire season with an Achilles injury, and longtime center Myles Turner, who departed for the Milwaukee Bucks. The Thunder enter with the confidence of defending champions, leveraging their roster continuity and ability to close tight games. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander remains their focal point after an impressive season-opening performance where he scored 35 points, supported by Chet Holmgren's robust 28-point contribution. The Pacers will rely on Bennedict Mathurin stepping into Haliburton's starting role, with three-time All-Star Pascal Siakam expected to facilitate more and Andrew Nembhard pushing the offensive pace. Indiana's depth will be tested against Oklahoma City's defensive pressure, with consistent shot creation remaining a significant challenge. Adding to their difficulties, the Pacers are also without NBA Finals hero T.J. McConnell due to a hamstring injury, facing the defending champions after a challenging season-opening scenario . Despite the obstacles, this is a proud and well-coached Pacers squad determined to compete.