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The Eastern Conference Finals series between the New York Knicks and the Indiana Pacers has been a compelling showcase of contrasting styles and individual brilliance. As the series heads into Game 4, the Pacers lead 2-1, having secured victories in the first two games on the road. The Knicks, however, bounced back in Game 3 with a 106-100 win in Indianapolis, demonstrating their resilience and ability to compete under pressure.
We will dive into a bigger series recap while also breaking down Game 4 and providing DFS picks for Game 4.
The opener was a high-energy battle with the Pacers prevailing 138-135 in overtime. Tyrese Haliburton was the star with 31 points and 11 assists, and Aaron Nesmith poured in 30 points, including six triples in the final quarter. Jalen Brunson scored a game-high 45 points for New York, while Karl-Anthony Towns added 35 points and 12 boards. Despite leading by double digits late in regulation, the Knicks couldn’t close it out, as Haliburton’s clutch shooting forced OT, where Indiana edged them out. The Knicks collapsed in the final minutes of Game 1, setting a tone for the first two games of the series.
Indiana extended their series lead with a 114-109 win in Game 2. Pascal Siakam dominated, scoring 39 points on 65% shooting. Haliburton filled the stat sheet again with 14 points, 8 rebounds and 11 assists, and Myles Turner added 19. Brunson led the Knicks with 36 points and 11 assists but missed a key three-pointer in the closing seconds. Towns had 20 points but struggled defensively and sat out most of the fourth quarter. The loss dropped New York’s playoff home record to 3-5, while Indiana improved to 6-1 on the road.
Facing a potential 3-0 deficit, the Knicks fought back. Karl-Anthony Towns erupted in the fourth quarter, scoring 20 of his 24 points in the final frame to lead a 36-20 closing run. Brunson added 23 points and was perfect from the free-throw line, hitting key shots down the stretch. OG Anunoby contributed 16 points and a crucial block, while Miles McBride and Josh Hart made important plays off the bench as Hart finished with a double-double. Coach Tom Thibodeau’s lineup decisions in crunch time paid off, allowing the Knicks to claw back into the series.
As the Pacers aim to take a commanding 3-1 lead and the Knicks look to even the series, Game 4 is shaping up to be pivotal. Indiana’s offensive firepower, driven by Haliburton’s creativity and Siakam’s versatility, poses a major challenge. New York must tighten its defense and find ways to contain both players if they hope to secure another road win.
Karl-Anthony Towns’ performance in Game 3 was a promising sign for the Knicks. If he can keep that momentum going and the supporting cast steps up again, New York has a solid chance to tie things up.
From a DFS perspective, the matchup between Haliburton and Brunson will be crucial in Game 4. Brunson’s ability to handle the ball and create scoring opportunities will be tested against Haliburton’s defensive skills and playmaking. The outcome of this individual battle could significantly influence the game’s outcome.
For DFS picks, Haliburton remains a top choice due to his all-around contributions. His scoring, assists and defensive stats make him a valuable asset. Towns is also a strong pick, especially if he continues his dominant performances. For the Knicks, Brunson’s scoring ability and leadership make him a reliable option, along with the rest of the role players. But our top DFS play tonight will be Tyrese Haliburton, as we believe he leads the Pacers to a 3-1 series lead.
Dylan has had a love for sports since he was a kid. Four years ago, he decided to dive into the sports content-creating industry specializing in Fantasy Football, NFL and NBA. He has since had his work published on sites that include Fantasy Alarm, Fansided, and Fantasy Six Pack.