Unexpectedly, the New York Knicks defeated the Indiana Pacers 111- 94 at the Garden in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals to maintain their record of making the NBA playoffs. Karl- Anthony Towns had a phenomenal spin, and Jalen Brunson had perhaps his career-stylish game as the Knicks went down 3- 2 in the best- of- seven and now will have to carry the pressure with them to Game 6 in Indianapolis.
Brunson Shines Bright at MSG
Jalen Brunson once again demonstrated why he’s the pulse of this Knicks squad. The All-Star point guard scored 32 points, had 5 assists, and dictated the pace of play from beginning to end. While energizing the boisterous home crowd, Brunson’s attacking drives and mid-range arrow shot left the Pacers defense reeling.
This was Brunson’s fifth 30-point performance in the postseason, a testament to the consistency and leadership he shows in big games. A slow start to the series aside, he made a definitive statement Thursday night — the Knicks are not ready to go home.
Karl-Anthony Towns Fights Through Injury
Due to a knee ailment, Karl-Anthony Towns was doubtful heading into the game, but he proved himself when it mattered. His performance was one of his most well-rounded of the playoffs, scoring 24 points and grabbing 13 rebounds. Towns’ ability to stretch the floor and his presence in the post gave the Knicks a much-needed boost on both ends of the court.
“I wasn’t going to sit this one out,” Towns said postgame. “This team, this city — we’re fighting for something bigger.”
Lockdown Defense & Pacers’ Struggles
New York’s defense stepped up in a big way, holding Indiana to under 100 points for the first time in the playoffs. The Knicks forced 19 turnovers and completely disrupted the Pacers’ rhythm, limiting star guard Tyrese Haliburton to just 14 points.
Josh Hart and Donte DiVencenzo were crucial. They put constant pressure on the perimeter while Isaiah Hartenstein defended the paint with solid rebounding and shot-blocking.
Game 6: Do or Die for Both Teams
With the series now at 3-2, the Knicks head to Indiana for Game 6 with renewed momentum and swagger. The Pacers will be trying to regroup at home, but the Knicks have shown that they will not be easily beaten. The team that wins this series will face either Boston Celtics or Miami Heat in the NBA Finals.
This Game 5 win wasn’t a win — it was a message. The Knicks showed heart, hustle, and playoff grit to their home crowd. If they could carry this momentum over into Game 6, they might quite possibly pull off the turnaround and live to fight another day on the championship front.
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