The New York Knicks are now down 3-1 in the Eastern Conference finals against the Indiana Pacers, falling 130-121 in Game 4 on Tuesday night.
New York had no answer for Tyrese Haliburton, who put up a historic stat line of 32 points, 12 rebounds and 15 assists, all while also stepping up defensively with four steals. With that, he became the first player in franchise history to have multiple triple-doubles in the playoffs.
Following the Pacers' win, NBA legend Magic Johnson heaped praise on Haliburton by highlighting his historic performance in his post on X.
"Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton made NBA history tonight becoming the first player with a triple double and no turnovers scoring 32 points, 15 assists, and 13 rebounds," Johnson wrote. "Indiana forward Pascal Siakam chipped in 30 points in the Pacers 130-121 win over the Knicks."
Washington Commanders owner and NBA legend Magic Johnson before the game against Portland Thorns FC at Audi Field.
Washington Commanders owner and NBA legend Magic Johnson before the game against Portland Thorns FC at Audi Field.
Brad Mills-Imagn Images
Interestingly, Johnson also shared his take on what caused the Knicks to lose in the contest.
In Game 3, it looked like the Knicks were finally able to figure out the Pacers as they took a 106-100 win, erasing a 20-point Indiana lead in the process. However, in Game 4, New York trailed by as many as 15 points and could never really stage a comeback.
Five players scored in double figures for the Knicks, led by Jalen Brunson who had 31 points. Still, they couldn't get it done.
According to Johnson, who is widely considered one of the greatest point guards in NBA history, the Pacers' speed was what really doomed the Knicks.
"The key to the Pacers victory is that they played fast all night long and wore Knicks down," the Los Angeles Lakers great explained.
It will be interesting to see how the Knicks adjust in Game 5 and what countermeasures they will have in place to prevent the Pacers from wearing them down with their speed, as Magic Johnson indicated.
Sure enough, with their backs against the wall, the Knicks will have to give a strong response if they want any shot at coming back in the series.