The Eastern Conference Finals start Wednesday night as the New York Knicks host the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 PM ET. The Knicks finished third in the East at 51-31, while the Pacers were close behind in fourth at 50-32.
This is the second straight year these two teams meet in the playoffs. Indiana won the series last year in seven games, ending it on the Knicks’ home court. New York took two of three regular-season games this year, but the Pacers just knocked off the top-seeded Cavaliers in five games. This game kicks off what should be a tough and long series.
Knicks Preview – Home Court Could Be Key
New York is 30-17 at home this season and plays tough defense under coach Tom Thibodeau. They just eliminated the defending champion Celtics in six games. Jalen Brunson continues to lead the team in scoring and is their top option in crunch time.
Karl-Anthony Towns had a strong regular season against Indiana, averaging 30.3 points and 12.0 rebounds in three games. His performance could be a deciding factor in this series. However, he struggled from deep against Boston, hitting just 3 of 19 from three-point range.
The Knicks give up only 110.9 points per game and are strong in first quarters, winning 19 of their last 25 opening frames. They also cover early spreads often, including the first quarter spread in 15 of their last 23 games. Their defense ranks in the top 10 in opponent field goal percentage and first-half unders have hit in 31 of their last 51 games.
Pacers Preview – Fast-Paced Offense Returns to the Garden
Indiana knocked off Milwaukee in five games and followed it with another five-game win over top-seeded Cleveland. Tyrese Haliburton has been a steady presence, leading the offense and making smart decisions. He’s joined by Bennedict Mathurin, who had 38 points in a regular season win over New York.
The Pacers lead with offense. They score 117.4 points per game and rank top five in both field goal percentage (48.9%) and three-point percentage (37.2%). They also rank third in assists per game and second in assist-to-turnover ratio. They don’t rely on one player and spread the ball well.
Indiana has hit the moneyline in 48 of their last 67 games. They are especially strong in the fourth quarter, hitting the moneyline and covering the spread in 39 of their last 57 final quarters. Their depth and pace give them a strong chance to hang around in any game, even on the road. Their road record sits at 24-21 for the season.
Betting Prediction
New York is a -4.5 favorite with a total of 224.5. The Knicks are the better defensive team and play well at home. But Indiana plays at a faster pace and has more scoring options, including multiple shooters who can get hot.
Indiana has strong late-game metrics and a good history of covering fourth quarter spreads. New York has the early-game edge but tends to fade in second halves. A close finish is likely. Predicted score: Knicks 112, Pacers 110. Indiana should cover the spread and could win outright.
Pick: Pacers +4.5
