The New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers are once again facing off in the playoffs, with significant stakes on the line this time. Their longstanding rivalry has reached a new chapter in the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals, where one team will earn a coveted spot in the NBA Finals for the first time in at least 25 years. The Pacers pulled off a stunning upset in Game 1, overcoming a 14-point deficit in the final three minutes to secure an overtime victory.
In a thrilling Game 1, the Pacers managed to steal a win with a remarkable comeback, showcasing their resilience and determination. This victory puts Indiana ahead 1-0 in the series, raising the stakes for the upcoming games. Game 2 is scheduled for Friday night at the iconic Madison Square Garden, where fans are eager to see how the Knicks will respond.
The Knicks have made significant strides this postseason, reaching the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2000. Their path to this stage included a hard-fought six-game series against the reigning champions, the Boston Celtics, in the second round, along with another six-game victory over the Detroit Pistons in the first round. Central to their success has been Jalen Brunson, who has been exceptional in the playoffs, averaging an impressive 28.8 points per game and excelling in clutch moments during the fourth quarter.
On the other side, the Pacers have proven their mettle by eliminating the Milwaukee Bucks and the Cleveland Cavaliers in five games each. This marks a significant turnaround for Indiana, who faced the Knicks in the second round last season, ultimately falling short against the Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals. The Pacers last made the NBA Finals in 2000, a year when they triumphed over the Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals, setting the stage for their championship aspirations.
Both teams share a rich history, with memorable playoff encounters that have defined their rivalry. The Knicks last appeared in the NBA Finals in 1999, where they also defeated the Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals. The culmination of this rivalry adds an extra layer of excitement to the current series as both teams strive for a return to glory.
Fans can look forward to an exciting series, with the complete schedule for the Eastern Conference Finals as follows:
Game 1: Pacers 138, Knicks 135 (OT) -- Indiana leads 1-0 Game 2: Friday, May 23 | Pacers vs. Knicks | 8 p.m. ET, TNT/Max Game 3: Sunday, May 25 | Knicks vs. Pacers | 8 p.m. ET, TNT/Max Game 4: Tuesday, May 27 | Knicks vs. Pacers | 8 p.m. ET, TNT/Max Game 5: Thursday, May 29 | Pacers vs. Knicks | 8 p.m. ET, TNT/Max Game 6: Saturday, May 31 | Knicks vs. Pacers | 8 p.m. ET, TNT/Max Game 7: Monday, June 2 | Pacers vs. Knicks | 8 p.m. ET, TNT/MaxAs the series progresses, the odds reflect a competitive matchup. According to FanDuel, the series odds currently stand at Pacers -168 and Knicks +142. For Game 2, the odds favor the Knicks at -6, with an over/under set at 227.5. Stay tuned for expert betting insights and best bets leading up to Friday's critical Game 2.
This playoff showdown between the Knicks and Pacers promises to be an unforgettable series as both teams chase their dreams of an NBA Finals appearance. With the excitement building, fans are eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this intense rivalry.
