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The Eastern Conference Finals between the Indiana Pacers and the New York Knicks has been a riveting series full of intensity, highlight-reel performances and clutch moments. With the Pacers holding a 3-1 series lead, they find themselves on the brink of their first NBA Finals appearance since 2000. As they head into Game 5 at Madison Square Garden, all eyes are on whether Indiana can seal the deal on the road or if the Knicks can extend the series and keep their championship hopes alive.
This breakdown recaps how the Pacers gained control of the series, analyzes what’s at stake in Game 5 and highlights the top DFS picks for what promises to be a pivotal matchup.
Game 1 was an instant classic, ending in a 138-135 overtime win for Indiana. Tyrese Haliburton dazzled with 31 points and 11 assists, while Aaron Nesmith exploded for 30 points, hitting 6 crucial threes in the final quarter. Despite Jalen Brunson’s 45-point masterpiece and Karl-Anthony Towns’ 35-point, 12-rebound effort, the Knicks squandered a late lead. Haliburton’s late-game heroics forced overtime, where the Pacers pulled ahead.
In Game 2, Indiana maintained their edge, claiming a 114-109 victory. Pascal Siakam led the way with 39 points on efficient shooting, while Haliburton delivered another well-rounded performance. Myles Turner added timely buckets, and the Pacers’ closing execution proved superior. Brunson kept the Knicks competitive with 36 points and 11 assists, but New York faltered down the stretch, falling to 0-2 at home.
Game 3 saw the Knicks claw back into the series with a 106-100 win in Indianapolis. Karl-Anthony Towns dominated the fourth quarter, scoring 20 of his 24 points during a critical run. Brunson chipped in 23 points and was flawless at the line, while OG Anunoby, Josh Hart and Miles McBride contributed crucial plays in crunch time. Head coach Tom Thibodeau made key rotational adjustments, helping the Knicks regain their footing,
but Game 4 was a gut punch for New York. Back on the road, Indiana responded with a poised and physical 130-121 win to take a commanding 3-1 series lead. Haliburton poured in 32 points and 15 assists, while Siakam added 30 points and anchored a stout defensive effort. Turner controlled the paint, notching 3 blocks. Despite 31 points from Brunson and another double-double from Towns, the Knicks faded in the second half of the game.
With the series at 3-1, Game 5 will be a defining moment. The Knicks need to gain some type of momentum at Madison Square Garden. Meanwhile, the Pacers aim to steal another road victory behind their high-powered offense and end the series in a gentlemen’s sweep.
Jalen Brunson continues to be the heartbeat of New York’s attack. His command of the offense, clutch shot-making and ability to draw fouls make him a premium DFS option. Karl-Anthony Towns showed renewed confidence in Game 4, contributing on both ends and giving the Knicks a reliable inside-out presence. Josh Hart’s rebounding and all-around hustle also give him strong DFS value.
For Indiana, Haliburton remains a dynamic playmaker, and Siakam will need to assert himself offensively if the Pacers are to keep pace. Myles Turner could also be a sneaky DFS pick due to his three-point ability and shot-blocking upside.
However, our top pick of the night will be Karl-Anthony Towns. KAT is mostly known for his shot-making, but tonight, we’ll look for him to clear the glass. He has had double-digit rebounds in three of the four games in the series, and we expect another big game from him here at home.
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.