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The New York Knicks are back in Indianapolis, ready for another intense battle on the court. After facing elimination for the first time in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals, the Knicks delivered their best defensive performance of the series, and perhaps the entire season. They successfully managed to slow down a Pacers offense that had been scoring over 120 points per 100 possessions in 8 of its previous 14 games.
Historically, only 4% of teams facing a 3-1 deficit have managed to win a best-of-seven series in NBA history. However, the Knicks have successfully completed Step 1, demonstrating their resilience and readiness for the challenge ahead. With two more wins, the Knicks could secure a spot in the NBA Finals, while the Pacers need just one victory to advance. Their next opportunity arises in Game 6, scheduled for Saturday at 8 PM ET on TNT.
As the Pacers prepare to face the Knicks again, there are four critical factors to consider:
This series has largely revolved around the Pacers’ offense. In their three victories, they’ve averaged an impressive 126.1 points per 100 possessions, while in their two losses, that number plummeted to just 101.0. The Knicks' defense shone in Game 5, limiting Indiana to a mere 94 points on 97 possessions, marking the Pacers' worst offensive outing of the playoffs.
According to Second Spectrum tracking, 19% of the Pacers’ shots came in the last seven seconds of the shot clock, indicating that the Knicks' defensive pressure forced them into difficult situations. The Knicks' switching and rotations were executed flawlessly, highlighting their commitment to defensive effort. If the Knicks can maintain this level of performance on defense, they could potentially force a Game 7 at Madison Square Garden.
While the Pacers have been scoring efficiently, their defensive challenges have been evident. The Knicks have scored 117.8 points per 100 possessions throughout the series, significantly higher than their previous playoff rounds. The standout performers for the Knicks have been Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, who have dominated the scoring charts, averaging 58.4 points together on an impressive true shooting percentage of 64.6%.
The Pacers have struggled to contain these stars, particularly in Game 5, where Brunson excelled against Aaron Nesmith. The matchup dynamics have favored the Knicks, especially with Towns facing Pascal Siakam more often, allowing him to capitalize in the paint. If the Pacers can find a way to limit Brunson and Towns, they could regain control of the series.
The possession battle has been crucial throughout the series. In Game 5, the Knicks gained an advantage by generating 12 more shooting opportunities than the Pacers, marking their best differential in the playoffs. This shift was fueled by the Knicks winning the rebound battle and committing fewer turnovers, a significant factor that contributed to their victory.
On the contrary, the Pacers’ 20 turnovers in Game 5 were a postseason high, allowing the Knicks to score 24 transition points—another series best. As both teams strive for a win, protecting the ball and capitalizing on rebounds will be vital in determining the outcome of Game 6.
The Pacers have enjoyed a strong record at home, winning two of their three games against the Knicks in New York. While a loss in Game 6 wouldn’t be catastrophic, it would give the Knicks fresh momentum. Indiana has not lost two consecutive games since March 10, and they aim to avoid that fate in front of their home crowd. With both teams performing well on the road this playoffs, the stakes will be high on Saturday.
Every possession counts in this crucial matchup, and both teams are aware that the intensity of playoff basketball is at its peak. As the series unfolds, basketball fans can expect thrilling moments and fierce competition.
Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analysis as we approach the climax of the 2025 NBA playoffs!
