Indiana Pacers vs New York Knicks – Match Recap & Player Stats

In a must-win Game 5, the New York Knicks delivered under pressure, defeating the Indiana Pacers 111–94 at Madison Square Garden. With the Eastern Conference Finals on the line, the Knicks showed grit, energy, and a defensive edge that shifted momentum back in their favor.

Game Summary

The Knicks came out swinging from the tip-off, outscoring the Pacers 38–32 in the first quarter. By halftime, New York had built a comfortable lead at 69–45, thanks to a dominant stretch on both ends of the court. Indiana, despite its best efforts, couldn’t close the gap as the game wore on.

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Jalen Brunson once again proved why he’s the heart of this Knicks team. The point guard dropped 32 points, dished out 7 assists, and grabbed 5 rebounds, controlling the tempo throughout. Alongside him, Karl-Anthony Towns recorded a 24-point, 13-rebound double-double, making his presence felt in the paint.

Key Player Performances

New York Knicks:

  • Jalen Brunson – 32 PTS, 7 AST, 5 REB
  • Karl-Anthony Towns – 24 PTS, 13 REB
  • Josh Hart – 14 PTS, 9 REB, 3 STL
  • Donte DiVincenzo – 11 PTS, 2 3PM, 4 AST
  • Isaiah Hartenstein – 6 PTS, 8 REB, 3 BLK

Indiana Pacers:

  • Aaron Nesmith – 9 PTS, 4 REB
  • Bennedict Mathurin – 23 PTS, 3 REB
  • Myles Turner – 18 PTS, 6 REB, 2 BLK
  • T.J. McConnell – 15 PTS, 5 AST
  • Tyrese Haliburton – 8 PTS, 6 AST (cold shooting night)

Full NYK vs IND Player Stats Breakdown

New York Knicks – Player Stats Breakdown (Game 5 vs Pacers)

Jalen Brunson – The Floor General

Brunson once again showed why he’s the engine of this Knicks team. He led all scorers with 32 points, hitting 12 of his 18 shots with smooth confidence. From mid-range pull-ups to clutch three-pointers (4 made), he had it all going. Brunson also added 5 assists and 5 rebounds, doing a bit of everything while keeping the offense in rhythm. His poise under pressure helped New York set the tone early and never let up.

Karl-Anthony Towns – Paint Presence and Power

Towns brought the muscle and finesse in the frontcourt. He posted a big double-double with 24 points and 13 rebounds, owning the paint and cleaning the glass on both ends. Whether it was second-chance buckets or tough post-ups, he made his presence known. He also chipped in 3 assists, showing great vision when double-teamed.

Josh Hart – Hustle King

Hart filled the stat sheet with 12 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists, and did it all with relentless hustle. His work on the boards, especially on the offensive end, gave the Knicks second chances when it mattered. He also grabbed 2 steals, turning defense into quick breaks. Hart’s energy plays were a big spark for New York all night.

Mikal Bridges – Silent Contributor

While not the flashiest on the stat sheet, Bridges quietly added 12 points and 5 assists, keeping the ball moving and spacing the floor with timely shots. He also played solid defense, sticking to his assignments and helping slow down Indiana’s wings.

Isaiah Hartenstein – Defensive Anchor

Hartenstein did the dirty work inside, finishing with 6 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 blocks. He altered shots, protected the rim, and gave the Knicks toughness in the paint. His contributions might not always make headlines, but they were crucial in this win.

Indiana Pacers Player Stats Breakdown – Game 5 vs New York Knicks

The Indiana Pacers struggled to find their rhythm in Game 5, falling 111–94 to the Knicks. While the team had its moments, the offensive flow never quite clicked. Here’s how the key players performed:

Bennedict Mathurin – Bright Spot Off the Bench

Mathurin led the Pacers in scoring with 23 points and pulled down 9 rebounds, putting together one of his strongest playoff performances. He brought energy, attacked the rim with confidence, and even knocked down a couple of three-pointers. While the rest of the team stumbled, Mathurin was one of the few consistent threats on offense.

Pascal Siakam – Veteran Presence, Modest Impact

Siakam put up 15 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals, showing his all-around game. He had stretches where he kept Indiana in the fight, but his offensive efficiency dipped as New York tightened the defense. Still, his leadership and hustle gave the Pacers some much-needed stability.

T.J. McConnell – Scrappy but Overwhelmed

McConnell chipped in 7 points, 5 assists, and 5 rebounds, doing a little bit of everything. He tried to push the pace and spark the offense, but the Knicks’ perimeter defense limited his playmaking options. As always, McConnell played with grit, but it wasn’t enough to turn the tide.

Tyrese Haliburton – Held in Check

The Pacers’ star guard had a quiet night by his standards, managing only 8 points and 6 assists. He shot just 2-for-7 from the field and never quite looked in rhythm. The Knicks’ defense keyed in on him, forcing tough shots and cutting off passing lanes. When Haliburton struggles, the whole Pacers offense tends to slow down — and that was clearly the case here.

Myles Turner – Interior Scoring, Defensive Struggles

Turner added 18 points and 6 rebounds, showing some life in the paint and from mid-range. However, on the defensive end, he had trouble containing Towns and gave up key boards. While his scoring helped, Indiana needed more resistance from their big man defensively.

Team Stats Breakdown

Stat Category

Knicks

Pacers

Field Goal %

49.5%

43.2%

3-Point %

38.9%

30.6%

Rebounds

47

39

Assists

26

19

Turnovers

10

14

What Went Right for the Knicks?

Defense. Plain and simple. The Knicks’ ability to lock down Tyrese Haliburton was a game-changer. They forced Indiana into tough shots, limited second-chance points, and made the paint a no-go zone.

The Knicks also benefited from timely shooting. DiVincenzo’s perimeter touch and Hart’s hustle plays sparked the crowd and kept energy levels high. Their bench contributed just enough to maintain control throughout.

What Went Wrong for the Pacers?

Haliburton’s off-night was tough to overcome. Indiana relied too heavily on individual efforts instead of cohesive playmaking. They also struggled to contain Towns, who outmuscled defenders down low with ease.

What’s Next?

The series now shifts back to Indianapolis for Game 6, with the Pacers still leading the series 3–2. It’s win-or-go-home for the Knicks, while the Pacers aim to close things out on home court.

Game 6 tips off Saturday night, and fans can expect fireworks as both teams fight to keep their championship dreams alive.

Final Thoughts

The Knicks answered the call when it mattered most. If they bring the same energy and execution to Game 6, we might just be headed for a thrilling Game 7. But don’t count the Pacers out — they’ve proven time and again they know how to bounce back.

FAQs: Knicks vs. Pacers – Game 5 (2025 Eastern Conference Finals)

What was the final score of Game 5 between the Knicks and Pacers?

The New York Knicks secured a 111–94 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 5, keeping their playoff hopes alive and narrowing the series deficit to 3–2.

Who led the scoring for the Knicks in Game 5?

Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 32 points, showcasing his leadership and scoring prowess to propel New York to victory.

How did Karl-Anthony Towns perform in Game 5?

Despite dealing with a knee contusion, Karl-Anthony Towns contributed significantly with 24 points and 13 rebounds, demonstrating resilience and determination on the court.

What was the Knicks’ defensive strategy in Game 5?

The Knicks focused on limiting the Pacers’ offensive threats, particularly Tyrese Haliburton, who was held to just 8 points and 6 assists, a stark contrast to his previous performances.

When and where is Game 6 scheduled?

Game 6 is set to take place on Saturday, May 31, 2025, in Indianapolis. The Knicks aim to even the series, while the Pacers look to clinch a spot in the NBA Finals.

What is the historical significance of the Knicks-Pacers rivalry?

The Knicks-Pacers rivalry is one of the most intense in NBA history, with numerous playoff battles dating back to the 1990s. The 2025 Eastern Conference Finals marks their ninth postseason meeting, with the Pacers leading the all-time playoff series 5–3.

How did the Pacers’ bench contribute in Game 5?

Bennedict Mathurin stood out for the Pacers, scoring 23 points and grabbing 9 rebounds off the bench, providing a spark despite the team’s overall struggles.

What adjustments did the Knicks make after Game 4?

Following a disappointing Game 4, the Knicks emphasized improved defensive intensity and ball movement, leading to a more cohesive and effective performance in Game 5.

Are there any notable injuries affecting the series?

Karl-Anthony Towns has been managing a knee contusion but continues to play through the injury. His performance remains crucial for the Knicks’ success in the series.

What are the implications if the Knicks win Game 6?

A Knicks victory in Game 6 would tie the series at 3–3, forcing a decisive Game 7 back at Madison Square Garden, with the winner advancing to the NBA Finals.

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