Knicks Beat Pacers in Game 5, Tensions Flare in Press Room

NEW YORK, NY — The New York Knicks kept their playoff hopes alive with a 111-94 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals at Madison Square Garden on Thursday night.

The win trimmed the Pacers’ series lead to 3-2, setting the stage for a vital Game 6 back in Indianapolis. Knicks guard Jalen Brunson shined with 32 points, helping the team stave off elimination and advance in the playoffs.

After the game, tensions heightened during the postgame press conference when Pacers forward Pascal Siakam found himself confronted by local journalist Gregg Doyel of the Indianapolis Star. Doyel questioned Siakam about the Pacers’ effort, asking, “How is it possible to not play hard enough in a playoff game?”

Siakam, who finished the game with 15 points, visibly frustrated, responded, “What are you talking about? They played harder than us. We played hard, but they played harder. What’s your point? I don’t get it.”

The exchange drew attention after Doyel’s controversial past, including a widely criticized interaction with WNBA star Caitlin Clark in 2024. Despite Siakam’s annoyance, many fans on social media sympathized with him, asserting that he was provoked by Doyel’s questions.

“You good bro? You’re looking for something I know, but damn. What else do you want me to tell you?” Siakam retorted, visibly annoyed by Doyel’s persistent questioning.

The Pacers will now look to refocus as they prepare for Game 6. Siakam emphasized the need for improvement, stating, “Loose balls, rebounds, we’ve got to be able to win that battle.”