Knicks' Game 5 Roar Is Indiana's Dream Officially Doomed?

Knicks Send a Resounding Message: Pacers Should Be Very Worried

NEW YORK – In a game that crackled with intensity and unwavering determination, the New York Knicks delivered a powerful statement in Game 5, reigniting their Eastern Conference Finals hopes and sending a clear message to the Indiana Pacers: this series is far from over. What transpired Thursday night at Madison Square Garden wasn't just a win; it was a forceful declaration of intent, showcasing the kind of grit and detail often associated with championship-caliber teams.

Facing elimination and a daunting 3-1 series deficit, the Knicks didn't just play; they imposed their will. They exhibited a level of focus and aggression that ripped the spirit from the fast-paced Pacers, ultimately securing a decisive 17-point victory and narrowing the series gap to 3-2. As Knicks star Jalen Brunson aptly stated, "We came out, had some energy in the way we played. I’m very proud of what we did."

Here's why Indiana should be concerned:

• Dominant Performance: The Knicks outhustled and outplayed the Pacers in nearly every facet of the game.
• Possession Advantage: New York took a staggering 15 more shots than Indiana, controlling the tempo and dictating the flow.
• Rebounding Prowess: The Knicks dominated the boards, denying the Pacers second-chance opportunities.
• Careful Play: Committing five fewer turnovers, the Knicks valued possession and minimized mistakes.

Brunson and Towns Lead the Charge

The Knicks' stars rose to the occasion, setting the tone early and dominating on both ends of the court. Jalen Brunson exploded for 32 points on an efficient 12-of-18 shooting, consistently penetrating the Pacers' defense and creating scoring opportunities. Karl-Anthony Towns added 24 points, showcasing his versatility and dominance in the paint.

Towns emphasized the importance of their defensive execution, stating, "Tonight was a great night for us executing our game plan defensively and it helped us get going offensively, too, with transition points."

Defensive Intensity Shuts Down Pacers

The Knicks' defensive effort was equally impressive, disrupting the Pacers' offensive rhythm and forcing turnovers. Mikal Bridges relentlessly guarded Tyrese Haliburton, holding him to a mere eight points. OG Anunoby recorded three steals, while Mitchell Robinson resurrected his "Blockness Monster" persona, deterring Pacers ballhandlers from attacking the rim. Even Landry Shamet contributed with a disruptive defensive possession off the bench.

“It started at the point of attack, with Mikal, just picking up and making things hard,” Knicks guard Miles McBride said. “Everybody talked and communicated a lot more. I just felt like we had an edge to us tonight.”

Can the Knicks Sustain the Momentum?

While the Knicks have shown flashes of brilliance throughout the playoffs, consistency has been their Achilles' heel. To complete the improbable comeback and become the first Eastern Conference finals team in 44 years to overcome a 3-1 deficit, they must replicate their Game 5 performance for two more games.

Pressure Shifts to Indiana

With the series now at 3-2, the pressure has squarely shifted to the Indiana Pacers. They are expected to close out the series at home, but a Game 7 at Madison Square Garden against a determined Knicks team led by Jalen Brunson would be a daunting challenge. The energy of that crowd could easily sway the momentum in New York's favor.

For 26 long years, Madison Square Garden has been silent in June, devoid of playoff excitement. The Knicks have the opportunity to change that narrative and bring championship aspirations back to the city. As Josh Hart succinctly put it, "We never give up. That’s the biggest thing. That’s just how we play." To achieve this, they must replicate their Game 5 intensity and determination. The Pacers will have to be the ones to definitively end the Knicks' season; New York won't concede easily.

The Knicks' Game 5 victory was more than just a win; it was a statement of resilience and a glimpse into their championship potential. Now, they must harness that energy and carry it forward, proving that they are not just a good team but a team capable of achieving greatness. The Pacers have been warned.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6392462/2025/05/30/knicks-pacers-game-5/