Knicks vs Pacers predictions
All eyes are on the New York Knicks as they try to stave off elimination in one of the most anticipated matchups of the season. Jalen Brunson, as usual, will set the tempo for New York, and I’m looking for him to pour in around 24 points and rack up a solid seven assists as he tries to orchestrate the offense against Indiana’s quick hands. Let’s not sleep on Karl-Anthony Towns, either—the big man has a real chance to make his mark on the glass, perhaps grabbing 14 rebounds while adding over 20 points with his inside-out game. OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges are also primed to step up, each chipping in more than 16 points as they stretch Indiana’s defense. And hey, you can expect Josh Hart to be everywhere—scooping up close to double-digit rebounds and making hustle plays that just might swing a quarter or two the Knicks’ way.
Sliding over to the Indiana Pacers, the home squad isn’t short on talent or confidence. Tyrese Haliburton will be the engine once again, and I see him pushing close to a double-double with about 19 points and nine assists, sparking fast breaks and getting everyone involved. Pascal Siakam is absolutely key—he’s got the size and skill to cause Big Apple-sized problems, and he could be looking at a 20-point, eight-rebound night if he gets comfortable early. Don’t be surprised if Myles Turner sneaks up with a handful of big plays too; with his shot-blocking and knack for clutch scoring, a 15 and 8 kind of stat line isn’t out of the question. The supporting cast—Nembhard, Nesmith, Toppin—each bring enough scoring punch to make this Indiana group one of the most unpredictable and fun squads to watch in the playoffs.
With the Gainbridge Fieldhouse crowd behind them and momentum swinging their way after grabbing the 3-2 series lead, the Indiana Pacers look like they’re in a strong spot to clinch a trip to the conference finals. The Knicks will give them everything they have, and it’ll probably come down to which star steps up under the brightest lights. But honestly, with Haliburton orchestrating and Siakam thriving in the mid-post, I have to give the nod to Indiana at home to seal the deal. What do you think—can New York steal one and force a wild Game 7, or are the Pacers about to make some more noise in the East?
