Knicks vs. Pacers: A Battle for the East in a Familiar Playoff Duel
The 2025 Eastern Conference Finals bring basketball fans a familiar, high-stakes clash: the New York Knicks vs. the Indiana Pacers. This marks a rematch of last year’s thrilling Eastern Conference Semifinals, and both teams arrive with momentum, motivation, and an eye on the NBA Finals.
Knicks Have Homecourt—and the Edge
Led by Jalen Brunson, the Knicks enter this series not only with homecourt advantage but with the confidence of a team that just eliminated the defending champion Celtics in six games. This postseason run has seen Brunson elevate his already elite game to another level, combining clutch scoring with floor leadership that’s driven the Knicks’ offense through difficult matchups.
Joining Brunson in the quest for a Finals appearance are Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, and Mikal Bridges—a versatile, defensively sound trio that complements Brunson’s playmaking perfectly. Towns stretches the floor with his shooting, Anunoby locks down wings, and Bridges can do a bit of everything, as evidenced by his game-ending heroics against the Celtics in Games 1 and 2. This team is deep, disciplined, and—most importantly—hungry.
Pacers Have a Rest Edge—and a Star of Their Own
The Indiana Pacers may not have the glitz or media spotlight of the Knicks, but they’re dangerous—especially with Tyrese Haliburton playing the best basketball of his career. A maestro in the pick-and-roll and a sharpshooter from deep, Haliburton is becoming one of the NBA’s most feared offensive engines.
The Pacers will also enjoy a rest advantage after wrapping up their second-round series early. Expect head coach Rick Carlisle to throw fresh legs and clever schemes at the Knicks, hoping to capitalize on any fatigue from New York’s grueling six-game series.
Keys to the Series
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Homecourt matters: Madison Square Garden has been a fortress. The Knicks are undefeated at home this postseason.
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Containing Haliburton: If the Knicks can disrupt his rhythm, Indiana’s offense slows significantly.
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Brunson’s continued excellence: He’s averaging over 30 points in these playoffs and has carried the team through key moments.
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Role players rising: The supporting casts will be tested. Who steps up in Game 6 or Game 7? Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Myles Turner will all play pivotal supporting roles in determining which team wins the Eastern Conference!
Prediction: Knicks in 7
This series has all the makings of a classic—high-level guard play, physical defense, and historical context. But with homecourt advantage, elite two-way talent, and the confidence of having taken down the Celtics, the Knicks are poised to win this series in 7 games.
A Finals berth is within reach—and Jalen Brunson and the Knicks look ready to seize it.