Eastern Conference Finals MVP– In one of the tightest MVP races in recent memory, Indiana Pacers forward Pascal Siakam has been named the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals MVP, narrowly edging out teammate Tyrese Haliburton by just one vote following a commanding Game 6 win over the New York Knicks.
Siakam, a seasoned playoff performer and three-time All-Star, received five of the nine media panel votes after averaging 24.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.5 assists over the six-game series. His dominant performance in the Pacers’ 125–108 series-clinching victory included a game-high 31 points, reinforcing his impact when it mattered most.
“Unbelievable, man” – Siakam reflects on Indy journey
Speaking on the TNT broadcast after hoisting the Larry Bird Trophy, Siakam expressed gratitude to Pacers fans and his teammates.
“Shoutout Indy, man. It’s been such an amazing experience. From day one, I’ve felt the love,” said Siakam. “After that tough Game 5, we wanted to bounce back. I have 100% belief in my teammates—and we showed that tonight.”
The Pacers acquired Siakam in a blockbuster trade from Toronto just over a year ago, a bold move that has now paid off in full as Indiana heads to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2000.
Siakam vs. Haliburton: A Close Race
While Siakam took home the MVP honors, Tyrese Haliburton was not far behind. The Pacers guard averaged 21 points, 10.5 assists, and 6.0 rebounds, including a crucial Game 1 buzzer-beater and several highlight plays that kept Indiana’s offense fluid.
Still, it was Siakam’s consistency—highlighted by a 39-point outburst in Game 2 and his Game 6 takeover—that ultimately tipped the scales.
Siakam’s Full Series Stats (2025 ECF):
- Game 1: 17 pts, 5 ast
- Game 2: 39 pts, 5 reb
- Game 3: 17 pts
- Game 4: 30 pts
- Game 5: 15 pts
- Game 6: 31 pts, 5 reb, 3 ast, 3 blocks
- Series average: 24.8 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 3.5 APG, 52.4 FG%, 50.0 3PT%
What’s Next
The Indiana Pacers will now prepare to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2025 NBA Finals, tipping off Thursday at 8:30 PM ET on ABC. With Siakam and Haliburton leading the charge, Indiana hopes to carry their postseason momentum into the championship round against the heavily favored Thunder.
Pascal Siakam’s MVP nod is more than a personal milestone—it’s a validation of the Pacers’ high-stakes trades and strategic vision. As Indiana heads into the Finals, the dynamic duo of Siakam and Haliburton gives the franchise real hope of clinching its first NBA title.