Indiana Pacers vs. New York Knicks Game 2 Recap: Eastern Conference Finals 2025
Pacers Take Commanding 2-0 Lead Over Knicks in Thrilling Game 2 of Eastern Conference Finals
Game Summary
The Pacers, led by a stellar performance from Pascal Siakam, who dropped a playoff career-high 39 points, showcased their depth and clutch execution. Siakam was highly efficient, shooting 15-of-23 from the field, including 3-of-5 from beyond the arc, and adding six free throws. Tyrese Haliburton contributed 14 points and 11 assists, orchestrating the offense with his signature flair, while Myles Turner added 16 points, including a crucial 11 in the fourth quarter. Aaron Nesmith and Andrew Nembhard each chipped in 12 points, ensuring all five Pacers starters scored in double figures.
The Knicks, despite a valiant effort, couldn’t overcome their late-game struggles. Jalen Brunson led New York with 36 points and 11 assists, while Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges each added 20 points. However, a critical moment came when coach Tom Thibodeau’s decision to keep Brunson on the bench during a key possession in the fourth quarter allowed the Pacers to extend their lead to 94-85, a deficit New York couldn’t recover from. The Knicks’ starting lineup was outscored by 13 points in Game 2, highlighting their struggles against Indiana’s relentless attack.
Key Moments
The game remained close, with the score tied at 81 entering the fourth quarter. The Pacers pulled ahead with a 3-pointer from Nesmith at 7:37, followed by Turner’s clutch plays, including a tip shot and a three-pointer that extended Indiana’s lead to 106-99. Despite a late rally from the Knicks, with Brunson and Bridges cutting the deficit to three points, Nesmith’s two free throws and Turner’s rebound sealed the deal after Brunson missed a deep three-pointer with seconds remaining.
Pacers’ Clutch Dominance
Indiana’s ability to thrive in high-pressure situations was evident, as they improved to 7-0 in clutch games this postseason. Their fast-paced, high-octane offense overwhelmed the Knicks, who struggled to maintain their defensive intensity late in the game. The Pacers’ depth, with no player logging more than 36 minutes, contrasted with New York’s reliance on starters like Bridges, who played over 45 minutes.
What’s Next?
With the series shifting to Indianapolis for Game 3 on May 25, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET, the Pacers are in prime position to advance to their second NBA Finals in franchise history. The Knicks, however, face an uphill battle, as teams with a 2-0 lead in playoff series have historically won 92.7% of the time. New York will need to regroup and address their fourth-quarter execution to avoid falling further behind.
Final Thoughts
The Pacers’ Game 2 victory underscores their status as one of the NBA’s most formidable teams in 2025, with a 44-16 record since January 1. Siakam’s emergence as a postseason star and Haliburton’s playmaking have made Indiana a nightmare matchup. For Knicks fans, the loss is a bitter reminder of the team’s historical struggles against Indiana in playoff series, with the Pacers now holding a 27-22 edge in their all-time postseason head-to-head.
Stay tuned for Game 3 as the Pacers look to maintain their momentum and the Knicks fight to keep their Finals hopes alive.
Sources: ESPN, The Athletic, NBA.com
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