The New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers renew their storied rivalry tonight in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks, fresh off a dominant closeout win in their last series, enter as slight favorites. Indiana, however, comes in hot after toppling a higher-seeded opponent and showcasing their offensive firepower.
New York thrives on a slower, methodical pace, anchored by Jalen Brunson's clutch playmaking and Karl-Anthony Towns' dominance in the paint. Brunson has been the heartbeat of the Knicks in crunch time, while Towns provides a formidable interior presence.
Indiana counters with a high-octane attack led by Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam. Haliburton's ability to create and score makes him a constant threat, while Siakam contributes across the stat sheet. Their bench brings hustle and scoring punch, often swinging the tide with energy and execution.
Expect a tightly contested game where New York's defense looks to slow down Indiana’s tempo. The Knicks’ home-court edge and more structured approach give them a slight upper hand, but the Pacers’ depth and pace will keep this battle alive deep into the fourth quarter.
