Why Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault is entering Game 5 of the NBA Finals with a unique approach against the Pacers. For Daigneault, that’s no recipe for sustained success, especially on the biggest stage — the NBA Finals — with an opportunity to push the Pacers to the brink of elimination in Game 5.

During its 111-104 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Friday in Game 4 of the NBA Finals, Oklahoma City became the highest-scoring team in league history, eclipsing a record the Golden State Warriors held for six years.

With the series tied 2-2 and returning to OKC, the former Laker and oldest Thunder player knows he doesn’t have to be a superhero against the Indiana Pacers.

The Indiana Pacers defense is finally getting its due. It ranked No. 3 in opponent 3-point attempt rate after the All-Star Break and No. 4 in opposing 3-point percentage in that same stretch, with foes making just 34.5% of their attempts from beyond the arc.

Heading back to Paycom Center for Game 5, the Oklahoma City Thunder must outperform an Indiana Pacers team who thrives in road environments.

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