Game Fives are historically do-or-die games. A team that is usually in the lead is expected to close out the series. However, the Indiana Pacers apparently were not attuned as the New York Knicks were able to dominate the game—forcing a Game Six. The Knicks matched and adjusted toward the Pacers fast-paced game plan. To the point where the team found out the Pacers weakness and pummeled their chances at a win. Knicks 117, Pacers 94.
Jalen Brunson, Knicks’ most clutch player—-proved to be efficient down the stretch. His iso-heavy broke down the Pacer’s defensive strategies each time. He was hard to contain and therefore dominated with thirty-two points, five assists, and five rebounds.
Defensively, the Knicks rugged playstyle inflicted physicality against the Pacers. In totality, the team had three blocks and eleven steals. The Knicks also led the game in defensive rebounds–finishing with thirty-four boards. Credit to OG Anunoby, Josh Hart, Mikal Bridges, and Mitchell Robinson for showcasing the team’s grittiness. The latter especially was clamping Myles Turner and Tyrese Haliburton in game-changing plays—halting their potential momentum.
The team’s de facto number two option—Karl-Anthony Towns—another source of offensive power. Correcting his previous mistakes, the center used his size to attack in the paint. When he was getting a bucket or getting fouled—his dominance was in full power. Towns finished the game with twenty-four points and thirteen rebounds.
The New York Knicks survived the fast-paced style of the Indiana Pacers by slowing their offensive efficiency down. Taking advantage of their opponent’s sluggish performance – the Knicks are looking to up the pace in Game Six. A crucial game that their opponents must handle with preparation and urgency.
