Knicks Edge Pacers in Late-Game Thriller, Take 1-0 Series Lead

In an intense match that went right down to the wire, the New York Knicks defeated the Indiana Pacers 121-117 in the opening game of the Eastern Conference Semifinals.

The Pacers started strong, testing the Knicks’ rugged defense with their explosive attack. The pace and rebounding themes of the series were foreshadowed by the early lead changes. Tyrese Haliburton of Indiana appeared unaffected by the postseason atmosphere, but Jalen Brunson of the Knicks promptly took off, sparking an 8-0 run for the home team.

Not to be deterred, Indiana retaliated with T.J. McConnell’s intensity off the bench. With neither team wanting to give up, the Knicks led 27–24 at the end of the first quarter.

The second quarter saw much of the same in this finely matched contest. The Knicks were beginning to break Indiana’s defensive routine, but their three-point shooting was keeping them afloat. Despite Indiana’s brief lead at halftime (55-49), the close score suggested a brawl in the second half.

In the third, the Knicks battled back and took the lead for the first time since the opening minutes. For the adoring crowd, it was a high-stakes show as both sides traded baskets. Myles Turner of Indiana (22 points) was a formidable opponent, but Brunson was close to putting on an incredibly outstanding individual effort.

After a 10-0 run by Indiana gave them the lead back, New York answered. The Pacers seemed to be gaining ground in the thrilling final minutes, but the Knicks were able to respond thanks to a relentless scoring spree by Brunson.

The last few seconds were suspenseful. Before Donte DiVincenzo’s game-winning three-pointer gave New York the advantage, the two teams traded leads. A contentious late-game call caused the Pacers to lose despite a late-game comeback.

After Turner led the Pacers in a heroic effort, it was Brunson’s historic 43-point outburst that proved to be the difference. Wednesday’s Game 2 is expected to be equally thrilling as Indiana looks to bounce back from an early series disadvantage.