The Indiana Pacers claimed another dramatic win over the New York Knicks, escaping with a narrow 114–109 victory at Madison Square Garden to take a 2–0 lead in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. This marks Indiana’s second consecutive road win, setting up a pivotal Game 3 at home, where the Pacers are notoriously tough to beat.
Pascal Siakam Dominates Early and Often
Pascal Siakam was unstoppable from the opening tip. The former NBA champion dropped 11 straight points to start the game and finished the first half with 23 points in just 15 minutes. His energy and efficiency gave the Pacers an early edge, as the Knicks struggled to find answers.
Only Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby managed to produce consistent offense for New York in the first half. Coach Tom Thibodeau responded with lineup changes, giving more time to Miles McBride and surprisingly resting Josh Hart. Backup center Mitchell Robinson provided a significant boost off the bench, posting a +13 rating—the highest on the team.
Knicks Rally Behind Towns and Robinson
Despite a cold start, Karl-Anthony Towns surged in the second quarter with 12 points, helping the Knicks take a slim lead into halftime. Robinson continued to shine, dominating the paint and disrupting Indiana’s interior attack with hustle plays and two blocks.
Meanwhile, Tyrese Haliburton had a quiet first half, shooting just 1-for-7 and scoring two points. He looked hesitant against mismatches, opting for passes instead of attacking.
Second Half: Siakam, Haliburton Lift Indiana
The third quarter saw Siakam continue his offensive assault, and Haliburton finally came alive. The two stars combined to keep the game neck-and-neck, despite the Knicks doing well to slow Indiana’s transition game.
Siakam’s physicality in the paint and Haliburton’s renewed confidence kept the Pacers within reach throughout a tense third quarter, which ended in a tie—setting up a thrilling final stretch.
Final Minutes: Clutch Free Throws Seal It for Indiana
With just under 90 seconds left, Jalen Brunson led a 7–0 Knicks run, cutting the deficit to three. Josh Hart followed up with a clutch layup to bring New York within one. However, Aaron Nesmith calmly sank two free throws to restore Indiana’s cushion.
Thibodeau opted not to call a timeout, and Brunson missed a deep, contested three-pointer. Myles Turner iced the game with two final free throws, giving the Pacers a five-point win and control of the series.
What’s Next?
With a 2–0 lead, Rick Carlisle’s Pacers head home to Indianapolis, where they’ll host Game 3 with all the momentum. If they keep this pace, Indiana could be making its first NBA Finals appearance since 2000.
