The Knicks and Pacers Meet in the Playoffs for the Second Year in a Row
It’s Game 1 of the 2025 Eastern Conference finals on Wednesday night as the New York Knicks host the Indiana Pacers. This game marks the Knicks’ first trip to the Eastern Conference finals since 2000, fueling hopes of a title run. Jalen Brunson has been instrumental in their playoff success, averaging 28.8 points and 7.7 assists per game, leading the team with remarkable performance.
The Pacers, returning to the ECF for the second consecutive year, are eager for their first victory in this stage since 2014. Indiana swept the Cavaliers in the second round and is led by All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton. Eight players from Indiana averaged at least seven points against Cleveland, highlighting their balanced attacking options.
First Game Details and Live Updates
The game started at 8 p.m. ET at Madison Square Garden in New York, broadcast live on TNT and streaming on Max. The odds favored the Knicks by 4.5 points, with an over/under of 221 points, indicating a closely contested matchup.
As of halftime, the Knicks led 69-62 despite Indiana’s hot start. Brunson was leading all scorers with 18 points, supported by Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges, while Myles Turner and Haliburton kept the Pacers competitive. The teams showcased some impressive shooting, with both sides shooting effectively from the field, foreshadowing a thrilling second half.
Early Game Highlights and Strategies
The first half saw significant scoring runs, with Indiana shooting an outstanding 74% from the field in the first quarter. The Knicks responded with strong rebounding and points in the paint during the second quarter. The pace and scoring intensity have made this series exciting and unpredictable, with both teams showing they can score from anywhere on the court.
Fan Engagement and Moving the Watch Parties
The Knicks’ dedicated fans celebrated loudly outside Madison Square Garden last Friday, with thousands taking over Seventh Avenue after their series victory over the Boston Celtics. To accommodate the growing enthusiasm, the Knicks are relocating their official watch party from MSG to SummerStage in Central Park for Friday’s game, which is free for all attendees. Meanwhile, Game 1 of the series had its outdoor watch party at Radio City Music Hall, with proceeds benefiting the Garden of Dreams Foundation.
Notable fans like Spike Lee and Timothée Chalamet joined in the festivities, illustrating the team’s deep cultural resonance. Fans are encouraged to follow ongoing updates and coverage to stay informed about the series progression and related celebrations.
Looking Ahead
The series continues with Game 2 on Friday night in New York before moving to Indianapolis for Game 3 on Sunday. Both teams are well-prepared, with key players like Towns and Haliburton expected to be crucial. The Knicks aim to extend their historic playoff run, while the Pacers seek their first ECF victory in over a decade.
Will the Knicks continue their comeback story, or will Indiana’s balanced attack prevail? Stay tuned as this captivating series unfolds, promising more high-stakes basketball and historic moments for both franchises.
