Knicks vs Pacers: The 2025 NBA Playoffs have reignited one of basketball’s most storied rivalries: Knicks vs Pacers. With both teams making dramatic runs to the Eastern Conference Finals, fans are witnessing a classic showdown reminiscent of their epic battles in the late 1990s and early 2000s. This article dives deep into the Knicks vs Pacers matchup, analyzing the latest Game 1 thriller, key players, tactical contrasts, and what to expect as the series unfolds.
The Road to the Eastern Conference Finals
Knicks vs Pacers:
The New York Knicks, seeded third, have exceeded expectations this postseason. After a gritty six-game battle against the Detroit Pistons, the Knicks shocked the basketball world by taking down the defending champion Boston Celtics in another six-game series. Jalen Brunson has been the heart of this squad, averaging 28.8 points and 7.7 assists per game, and delivering clutch performances when it matters most.This marks the Knicks’ first appearance in the Eastern Conference Finals since 2000, ending a 25-year drought
Pacers’ Path:
The Indiana Pacers, seeded fourth, have also defied the odds. They dispatched the Milwaukee Bucks and then stunned the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers in just five games, overcoming significant deficits and showcasing their resilience. Tyrese Haliburton has led a balanced attack, with eight different Pacers averaging at least seven points per game against the Cavs.This is Indiana’s second straight trip to the conference finals, after being swept by Boston in 2024
Game 1: Instant Classic at Madison Square Garden
Game 1 of the Knicks vs Pacers series delivered on all fronts, with drama, comebacks, and unforgettable moments. The Knicks built a commanding 17-point lead in the fourth quarter and seemed poised to secure a crucial home victory. With just 2:45 left, New York still led by 14—a margin that, historically, teams had never lost in the NBA playoffs (994-0 record).
But the Pacers, true to their postseason form, staged a furious rally. Aaron Nesmith ignited the comeback, hitting five three-pointers in the final four minutes and scoring 30 points overall.yrese Haliburton then capped the run with a dramatic game-tying shot—initially ruled a three, but later changed to a two after review—sending the game to overtime.In the extra period, Indiana completed the comeback, winning 138-135 and seizing home-court advantage.
Knicks vs Pacers: Key Tactical Contrasts
| Feature | Knicks | Pacers |
|---|---|---|
| Scoring Distribution | Heavy reliance on starting five (87% of points) | Deep rotation, bench contributes 30% of points |
| Playing Style | Gritty, physical, half-court offense | Fast-paced, transition-heavy, perimeter shooting |
| Star Power | Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby | Tyrese Haliburton, Pascal Siakam, Aaron Nesmith |
| Playoff Experience | First ECF since 2000 | Second straight ECF appearance |
Knicks:
New York’s success is built on the strength and consistency of its starting five, who contribute nearly 90% of the team’s points. Their approach is methodical, relying on Brunson’s playmaking, Anunoby’s defense, and timely shooting from supporting players. The Knicks thrive in half-court sets and look to control the tempo.
Pacers:
Indiana, by contrast, leverages a much deeper rotation. Their bench is a constant threat, and coach Rick Carlisle is unafraid to mix lineups for maximum energy and shooting. The Pacers play at a frenetic pace, pushing the ball in transition and relying on quick ball movement to create open threes.
Historic Rivalry: Knicks vs Pacers Through the Years
This is the ninth playoff meeting between the Knicks and Pacers, tying them for the most frequent postseason opponents since 1993.Four of these series have come in the conference finals, including the legendary 2000 matchup that saw Indiana advance to the NBA Finals.The rivalry is filled with iconic moments, from Reggie Miller’s “choke” gesture to Spike Lee in 1994 to last year’s dramatic seven-game series.Last season, Indiana eliminated a depleted Knicks team in the second round, but this year both squads are at full strength, setting the stage for another epic chapter.
Game 1 Takeaways and What’s Next
Key Takeaways:
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The Pacers’ ability to erase large deficits is unmatched this postseason, with Game 1 marking the first time in NBA history a team overcame a 14-point deficit in the final three minutes of a playoff game.
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Aaron Nesmith’s late-game heroics and Tyrese Haliburton’s poise under pressure have given Indiana a psychological edge.
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The Knicks’ reliance on their starters is both a strength and a potential vulnerability, especially if fatigue or foul trouble sets in
Looking Ahead:
Game 2 will be pivotal. The Knicks must regroup and find ways to counter Indiana’s depth and late-game execution. Jalen Brunson remains the key for New York, but contributions from the bench and improved late-game defense are essential. For the Pacers, maintaining their aggressive tempo and spreading the scoring load will be critical to sustaining their momentum.
Knicks vs Pacers : A Series for the Ages
The Knicks vs Pacers rivalry is back in full force, delivering high-stakes basketball and unforgettable moments. With both teams boasting unique strengths and rich playoff histories, this Eastern Conference Finals promises to be one of the most compelling series of the 2025 NBA Playoffs. Whether you’re a die-hard Knicks fan, a Pacers supporter, or a basketball enthusiast, this matchup is must-watch TV.
Stay tuned as the drama unfolds—because in the Knicks vs Pacers rivalry, anything can happen.
What were the key moments in the Knicks vs Pacers Game 1
Key Moments in Knicks vs Pacers Game 1
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Knicks Build a Big Lead:
The Knicks led by as many as 17 points in the fourth quarter and still held a 14-point advantage with under three minutes left in regulation, seemingly in full control of the game. - Pacers’ Historic Comeback:
Indiana mounted a furious rally, outscoring the Knicks 31-14 to close regulation. They scored 23 points in the final 3:14, the most in a playoff game since 1997, and erased a nine-point deficit in the final minute—a feat no team had accomplished in the play-by-play era since 1998. - Aaron Nesmith’s Three-Point Barrage:
Aaron Nesmith was instrumental in the comeback, hitting a series of late three-pointers that rapidly closed the gap, including five threes in the last minutes of regulation. - Haliburton’s Buzzer-Beater:
With the Pacers down by two and time expiring, Tyrese Haliburton hit a dramatic jumper as the regulation buzzer sounded. Initially ruled a three-pointer, replay confirmed his toe was on the line, tying the game at 125 and forcing overtime. Haliburton celebrated with a “choke” gesture, echoing Pacers legend Reggie Miller’s iconic moment at Madison Square Garden. - Pacers Seal It in Overtime:
In overtime, Andrew Nembhard made the go-ahead basket with 26 seconds left, and the Pacers held on to win 138-135, completing one of the most remarkable comebacks in NBA playoff history.