Knicks and Pacers Renew Rivalry in Eastern Conference Finals
The New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers are set for another thrilling playoff matchup, rekindling a fierce rivalry that now has an NBA Finals spot at stake. In the latest chapter of their postseason saga, the Pacers hold a 2-1 lead over the Knicks in the 2025 Eastern Conference finals. However, New York made a statement in Game 3, overcoming a formidable 20-point deficit to snatch a victory in Indiana. This sets the stage for a pivotal Game 4 on Tuesday night.
Knicks Chase First NBA Finals Since 1999
The Knicks have ended a long drought, making it to the East finals for the first time since 2000. They secured their spot after dispatching the reigning champion Boston Celtics in a hard-fought six-game series. Before that, New York powered past the Detroit Pistons, also in six games. Leading their charge has been Jalen Brunson, who’s been nothing short of spectacular. Averaging 28.8 points during the 2025 playoffs, Brunson has consistently excelled, particularly in fourth quarters.
Pacers Aim for Redemption
For the Indiana Pacers, the path to the Eastern Conference finals included a commanding march past the Milwaukee Bucks and Cleveland Cavaliers, each in just five games. Last season, they had managed to tame the Knicks in the second round. But their joy was short-lived as they were swept away by the Celtics in the conference finals. Remarkably, the Pacers haven't graced the NBA Finals since 2000 when it was the Knicks who fell to them in the East finals.
Upcoming Showdown in Game 4
With the series heating up, Game 4 will see an interesting development. Aaron Nesmith, crucial for the Pacers, sprained his ankle in Game 3's third quarter, a factor contributing to New York's stunning comeback. While Nesmith bravely returned to the court, the real test will be his condition two days later. Although the adrenaline drove him during the game, it remains uncertain how he'll fare after a possible bout of swelling. Known for his Game 1 heroics, Nesmith's impact has been diminished by an ankle sprain that saw him miss 35 games this season. Expect the Knicks to target him early, testing both his resilience and the Pacers’ depth should his minutes need curtailing.
As the series continues, all eyes will be on the Madison Square Garden court this Tuesday. Can the Knicks ride the momentum, or will the Pacers put them on the brink of elimination? One thing's for sure: this playoff rivalry continues to deliver drama and excitement at every turn.