Indiana Pacers v New York Knicks - Game One
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Pacers vs. Knicks ECF Game 2: Preview, Betting Odds, & Prediction
The Indiana Pacers enter Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals at Madison Square Garden riding high off their unforgettable Game 1 masterpiece.
Their 138-135 overtime victory not only shocked the New York Knicks but also solidified the Pacers’ reputation as the comeback kings of the 2025 NBA Playoffs.
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Fueled by resilience and unrelenting grit, Indiana now looks to seize control and go up 2-0 on Friday night.
The Game 1 Recap
Game 1 will go down as one of the most iconic moments of this year’s postseason, with the Pacers clawing back from a 14-point deficit with less than three minutes left in the fourth quarter.
Aaron Nesmith erupted for six three-pointers in the final period, finishing with a career-high 30 points in the playoffs.
His clutch shooting set the stage for Tyrese Haliburton’s jaw-dropping buzzer-beating step-back jumper that forced overtime.
The All-Star point guard ended the game with 31 points and 11 assists, continuing his brilliant postseason form.
Meanwhile, Andrew Nembhard and Myles Turner delivered key contributions in overtime, with Turner anchoring the defense while Obi Toppin added critical points in crunch time.
This win was yet another showcase of the Pacers’ ability to stay composed under pressure, a hallmark of their playoff success.
Keys to Game 2
Indiana’s game plan will hinge on maintaining the same level of intensity and poise they displayed down the stretch in Game 1.
Defensively, slowing down Knicks star Jalen Brunson, who poured in 43 points in the opener, will be a top priority.
Karl-Anthony Towns, who dominated inside with 35 points and 12 rebounds, also remains a key focus as the Pacers aim to limit his efficiency.
The Pacers will likely look to capitalize on their unmatched depth and three-point shooting, with Aaron Nesmith and Pascal Siakam playing pivotal roles in stretching the Knicks’ defense.
Haliburton’s playmaking will be the engine that drives the offense, while Myles Turner needs to tighten up interior defense and control the boards to neutralize New York’s physical presence in the paint.
Betting Odds and Prediction
Despite Indiana’s momentum, oddsmakers have the Knicks as 5.5-point favorites heading into Game 2, with an over/under set at 226.5 points.
The Pacers’ ability to rally from seemingly impossible situations has made them a formidable underdog throughout these playoffs, and they’ve posted a stellar 5-1 road record.
Prediction: The Knicks will come out determined to even the series, but if the Pacers can execute on the defensive end and maintain their balanced attack, another upset is well within reach.
Look for Tyrese Haliburton and Aaron Nesmith to again lead the charge, while key contributions from role players will decide this close contest. Final score prediction: Pacers 117, Knicks 114.
Final Thoughts
Game 2 is shaping up to be another thrilling chapter in what promises to be a memorable series.
With momentum firmly on their side, the Pacers have an opportunity to make history by taking a commanding 2-0 lead before the series heads back to Indianapolis.
Fans should buckle up for another intense battle at The Garden as Indiana continues to elevate in these playoffs.
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