"Don't think Chet Holmgren presents the same level of problem" - Jermaine O'Neal expects Myles Turner to dominate OKC matchup

On Tuesday, Indiana Pacer legend Jermaine O'Neal shared his take on the NBA Finals match-up between Myles Turner and the OKC Thunder's Chet Holmgren. The two teams will begin their pursuit of the NBA crown on Thursday with the first game to be played at the Paycom Center.

During an appearance on the Gil's Arena podcast, the six-time All-Star expects Turner to have the edge against the Thunder big man, referencing prior success against Karl-Anthony Towns.

"Well, I'll tell you this from a Myles Turner deal, hell, KAT was a low so I don't think OKC has somebody like Karl-Anthony Towns," O'Neal said. "He was tough to deal with off the dribble, behind the three-point line ... and he was physical. I don't think Chet Holmgren presents the same level of problems, so I think the match-up will be a lot better for Myles Turner."

(From 3:35 onwards)

Turner, the longest-serving member of the Pacers roster, had a great series against the New York Knicks, despite a tough matchup against Karl-Anthony Towns. He averaged 13.0 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.8 blocks in six games.

Although enjoying a great series against KAT, Holmgren is not to be taken lightly. While he might lack the physicality of the former Timberwolves star, the young center is a dominant presence in the box and will be a threat during the Finals.

Myles Turner expresses his admiration for "champion" Pascal Siakam, as the Pacers prepare for Thunder showdown

Speaking to the media before Game 1, Myles Turner appreciated Siakam, who has led from the front during the playoffs.

"We brought in a champion, man," Turner said. "You've brought in someone who's been there before. And you know not just a fluke championship, someone who had to work his way up. He's a G league champion, G League Finals MVP, and then obviously the All-Star's, also someone who's seen the high's and the low's."

Siakam was a key force in leading the Pacers to their first Finals appearance in over 25 years. His contribution during the Eastern Conference finals saw him win the Conference Finals MVP award, as he hopes to win his second-ever NBA title.