Pacers vs Knicks, the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Finals have been a thrilling battle, with the Indiana Pacers holding a 3-2 lead over the New York Knicks as they head into Game 6 on May 31, 2025, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. With a trip to the NBA Finals on the line, the Pacers aim to close out the series at home, while the Knicks fight to force a decisive Game 7. Drawing from recent performances, historical trends, betting odds, and expert analyses, this article explores the factors shaping the outcome of this pivotal game.

Series Context and Recent Performance

The Pacers have dominated much of this series, winning Games 1 (138-135) and 2 (114-109) on the road at Madison Square Garden, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure. They also secured a convincing 130-121 victory in Game 4 at home. However, the Knicks responded with wins in Game 3 (106-100) in Indiana and a dominant Game 5 (111-94) in New York, keeping their hopes alive.

In Game 5, the Knicks’ Jalen Brunson led with 32 points, shooting 66.7% from the field, while Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 24 points and 13 rebounds despite a bruised left knee, as noted in a recap from The Athletic. The Pacers struggled offensively, with Tyrese Haliburton scoring just 8 points on 2-7 shooting and Pascal Siakam managing 15 points on 5-13 shooting. This marked a significant drop from Game 4, where Haliburton recorded a zero-turnover triple-double and Siakam likely contributed significantly to the Pacers’ 130-point outburst.

Pacers vs Knicks

Historical Trends

Historical data provides insight into the Pacers’ favorable position. According to Land of Basketball, teams leading 3-2 in a best-of-seven series win approximately 83.9% of the time, based on 355 series. In the Conference Finals specifically, this figure is 80.3%. For series concluding in six games, the team leading 3-2 has a perfect record, as they secure the necessary fourth win in Game 6. This historical advantage, combined with the Pacers’ home court, strengthens their case. Table of historical data for Pacers vs. Knicks Game 6 Prediction

Series Status	Total Series	Team Leading 3-2 Wins	Percentage	Team Trailing 2-3 Wins	Percentage
All Playoffs	355	298	83.9%	57	16.1%
Conference Finals	66	53	80.3%	13	19.7%
Finished in 6 Games	201	201	100.0%	0	0%

Betting Odds and Expert Predictions

Betting odds from ESPN list the Pacers as 3.5-point favorites for Game 6, with a moneyline of -155 and a total points over/under of 219.5. This reflects confidence in Indiana’s ability to rebound at home, where they won Game 4 decisively. The Pacers’ 6-1 road record in the 2025 playoffs, as mentioned in CBS Sports, further supports their versatility.

Expert opinions from CBS Sports show a lean toward the Pacers. Brad Botkin, James Herbert, and Jack Maloney predicted a Pacers win in six games, citing their depth and high-powered offense, which boasts a playoff-leading 117.3 offensive rating. Conversely, Sam Quinn and Jasmyn Wimbish picked the Knicks in seven and six games, respectively, highlighting New York’s resilience and Brunson’s clutch play.

Pacers vs Knicks

Key Players to Watch in Pacers vs Knicks

For the Pacers, Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam are critical. Haliburton, averaging 18.3 points and 9.6 assists in the playoffs, had a standout Game 4 but faltered in Game 5. Siakam, with 23.6 points per game in the series, was contained in Game 5 but remains a significant threat. The Knicks’ defense, which limited Siakam to 5-13 shooting in Game 5, will aim to repeat this effort.

For the Knicks, Jalen Brunson, averaging 28.8 points and 7.7 assists, has been a consistent force, scoring 30+ points in six playoff games. Karl-Anthony Towns, despite his knee injury, has been a dominant presence, averaging 19.8 points and 11.3 rebounds. Mikal Bridges also played a key role in Game 5, contributing 12 points and five assists while effectively guarding Haliburton.

Pacers vs. Knicks

Home Court and Series Dynamics

The series has seen surprising road success, with the Pacers winning Games 1 and 2 in New York and the Knicks taking Game 3 in Indiana. The Pacers’ 2-1 home record in the series, including a strong Game 4 win, suggests they can capitalize on their home crowd’s energy. However, the Knicks’ ability to rally from a 20-point deficit in Game 3 shows their tenacity, making Game 6 a potential battle.

Pacers vs Knicks

Conclusion

While the Knicks’ Game 5 victory demonstrates their fight, the Pacers’ historical advantage, home court, and betting odds tilt the scales in their favor. With Haliburton and Siakam likely to rebound from their Game 5 struggles, and the Pacers’ depth providing an edge, Indiana is well-positioned to win Game 6 and advance to the NBA Finals. Expect a high-intensity game, but the Pacers should emerge victorious, fulfilling the predictions of many experts.

Final Prediction Pacers vs Knicks : Pacers win Game 6, 115-108, to clinch the series 4-2.

Learn more about Sports