Game Date: 05-31-2025 Time: 8:00 PM EST

Location: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN

Series: Pacers lead 3-2

Spread: Pacers -3.5 Over/Under: 219.5

The Stakes:

The Pacers are heading home with a chance to close out the Eastern Conference Finals and reach the NBA Finals for the first time in a while. The Knicks, however, fought off elimination in Game 5 thanks to a herculean effort from Jalen Brunson and a renewed defensive intensity. This is a must-win game for the Knicks to force a Game 7 back in New York.

Knicks Keys to Victory:

• Jalen Brunson Magic: Brunson has been spectacular this entire series. He needs to continue his scoring dominance, but also be a facilitator and make smart decisions against a Pacers defense that will be keyed in on stopping him.
• Defense Travels: The Knicks leaned on their defense to force turnovers and disrupt the Pacers’ offensive flow in Game 5. They need to replicate that intensity on the road, especially limiting easy baskets in transition.
• Rebounding Battle: The Pacers are a strong rebounding team. The Knicks must box out effectively and limit second-chance opportunities for Indiana.
• Support Cast: While Brunson has been the star, the Knicks need contributions from players like Josh Hart (if healthy), OG Anunoby (if he returns), and others. Timely scoring and hustle plays from the supporting cast will be crucial.

Pacers Keys to Victory:

• Home Court Advantage: The Pacers need to feed off the energy of their home crowd. A fast start and controlling the tempo early will be vital.
• Haliburton’s Control: Tyrese Haliburton needs to be at his best. Efficient scoring, smart passing, and limiting turnovers are essential for the Pacers’ offense to thrive.
• Transition Offense: The Pacers are one of the best transition teams in the league. Pushing the pace and getting easy baskets will put pressure on the Knicks defense.
• Defensive Adjustments: After struggling to contain Brunson in Game 5, the Pacers need to make adjustments to their defensive scheme and throw different looks at him.

Prediction:

This game is shaping up to be a nail-biter. The pressure is on the Pacers to close out the series at home, but the Knicks have shown tremendous resilience. Expect a high-energy, physical game.

While the Knicks showed great fight in Game 5, winning on the road against a Pacers team with a chance to advance to the NBA finals is a tall order. I think the Pacers will utilize their home crowd and transition game to pull out a close victory.

Pick: Pacers -3.5Over/Under: Over 219.5 (Expect a high-scoring affair)

Sources:
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