Can the Knicks pull off a comeback for the ages? After trailing 3-1 in the series, New York showed grit and resilience as Jalen Brunson exploded for 32 points to lead the Knicks past the Indiana Pacers 111-94 in Knicks vs Pacers Game 5 of the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals. With this statement win at Madison Square Garden, the Knicks have forced a do-or-die Game 6 on the road.
Let’s break down the game-changing moments, standout performances, and what the Knicks vs Pacers clash means as we move forward.
🏀 Jalen Brunson Dominates Yet Again
Jalen Brunson has officially entered Knicks playoff legend territory.
With 32 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists, he once again carried the offensive load for New York, setting the tone early by scoring 14 points in the opening quarter.
This marks Brunson’s 21st 30+ point game in the playoffs, a new franchise record. His ability to attack off the dribble, draw contact, and create space has completely disrupted Indiana’s perimeter defense.
🧱 Knicks’ Defense Shuts Down Haliburton
The Knicks’ defensive game plan was masterful in Game 5.
They held the Pacers under 100 points in this pivotal Knicks vs Pacers matchup, forcing 19 turnovers and winning the battle in the paint 60-34.
Tyrese Haliburton, who had been averaging over 20 points in the series, was held to just 8 points on 3-of-9 shooting. Thanks to Mikal Bridges’ suffocating perimeter defense and solid interior help from Isaiah Hartenstein, Indiana never found a rhythm.
💪 Towns and Bench Provide Crucial Support
Despite playing through a nagging knee injury, Karl-Anthony Towns posted 24 points and 13 rebounds, asserting dominance inside during this important Knicks vs Pacers contest.
Key bench contributors included:
- Donte DiVincenzo: 11 points, 3 steals, crucial hustle plays
- Miles McBride: 9 points and strong defensive minutes
- Josh Hart: 10 rebounds and infectious energy on both ends
New York’s second unit brought intensity and outscored Indiana’s bench 42-29.
📉 What Went Wrong for the Pacers?
Indiana came into Game 5 with momentum, but in what was supposed to be a decisive Knicks vs Pacers showdown, they left with more questions than answers.
Aside from Bennedict Mathurin’s 23 points off the bench, the Pacers looked out of sync and passive, especially in the third quarter where they were outscored 30-18.
Coach Rick Carlisle acknowledged the team’s lack of urgency:
Indiana must regroup quickly before heading back to Gainbridge Fieldhouse for Game 6.
🔮 What to Expect in Game 6
Game 6 now becomes a win-or-go-home scenario for the Knicks, while Indiana will try to avoid the embarrassment of blowing a 3-1 series lead.
Key questions ahead of Game 6:
- Can Haliburton bounce back offensively?
- Will Brunson continue his MVP-caliber playoff run?
- Can Towns stay healthy and dominant on the road?
One thing’s for sure—Game 6 will be a must-watch.
📊 Fast Facts & Stats
- 🧨 Knicks outscored Pacers 60-34 in the paint
- 🛡️ Forced 19 turnovers, including 8 steals
- 🔥 Knicks are 6-1 at home this postseason
- 🧊 Haliburton: 8 pts, 3 assists, -16 plus/minus
- 🚨 Brunson: 32 pts, 12/18 FG, 10 points in 4th quarter
