Pacers Take 2-0 Series Lead with Siakam’s Stellar Performance

NEW YORK — In a thrilling playoff showdown, the Indiana Pacers edged the New York Knicks 115-110 on Friday night to take a 2-0 lead in the Eastern Conference finals.

Down by 10 points with less than three minutes remaining, the Knicks made a spirited comeback and closed the gap to just one point within the final seconds. However, Jalen Brunson‘s missed three-pointer sealed their fate at Madison Square Garden.

Brunson highlighted the Knicks’ defensive struggles throughout the game, stating, “We have to be more sound defensively to guard the first action, second action, but also the third action.” He emphasized the need to avoid costly mistakes, especially as the series shifts to Indiana for Game 3 on Sunday.

Indiana’s Pascal Siakam was instrumental in the victory, scoring a playoff career-high 39 points, including 17 in the first quarter alone. Siakam’s performance, which included shooting 15-of-23 from the field, helped quiet the Madison Square Garden crowd.

Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton praised Siakam, saying, “He can get a bucket in so many different ways. We just kept feeding him, and I thought he did a great job of making big shot after big shot.” Siakam’s experience, having won an NBA championship in 2019, played a crucial role in the Pacers’ strategy.

Despite the defeat, Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau expressed optimism, stating he would explore every option to secure a win in Indiana. The Knicks have struggled with their starting lineup, having been outscored significantly through the first two games of the series.

As the series heads to Indiana, both teams understand the gravity of the upcoming games. Brunson acknowledged the need for increased mental focus, saying, “We’re in the conference finals. Nothing else matters right now; we have to bring our best. There’s no question about it at this point.”