Pacers vs Knicks predictions
The Indiana Pacers have their eyes locked on the NBA Finals, and if you’ve watched them this series, it feels like anything is possible. Pascal Siakam continues to be the focal point on both ends — I wouldn’t be surprised to see him throw up a near double-double tonight, maybe just a hair under 20 points with strong work on the boards. Tyrese Haliburton is another guy I’m watching closely; he should flirt with 20 points and hand out a classic helping of assists, proving why he might be the most influential guard in this matchup. Myles Turner and Aaron Nesmith could both quietly hit that mid-teen scoring range, chipping in with tough rebounds and defensive plays that don’t always show up in the box score but change games at Madison Square Garden.
On the other side, the New York Knicks have gotten big-time playoff moments from Jalen Brunson, so there’s every reason to think he’ll once again put up 25-plus points and set up his teammates for easy looks as always. You know Karl-Anthony Towns is going to have his fingerprints all over this one too — assuming his knee holds up, he’s the x-factor on the glass and could easily notch another 20+ point, double-digit rebound game. OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges probably combine for over 30 points between them, and don’t sleep on Josh Hart’s ability to crash the boards or kickstart fast breaks — he’s been the heart and hustle for New York all season.
So, who takes it? Let’s be real, with the Pacers up 3-1 and already stealing a couple up at the Garden, they’ll be entering with a world of confidence, playing loose and fast. The Knicks have that gritty home-court energy and some playoff pedigree, but with Towns dinged up and the Pacers rolling as a unit, this one just feels like Indiana’s for the taking. I’m rolling with the Pacers to seal the deal and punch their ticket to the Finals — but with New York facing elimination and the crowd roaring, don’t expect them to go quietly. It’s going to be a battle.
