Knicks Force Game 6 with Victory Over Pacers

NEW YORK: Jalen Brunson delivered a stellar performance as the New York Knicks triumphed over the Indiana Pacers with a final score of 111-94 in Game 5 of the NBA playoffs, held at Madison Square Garden on Thursday.

The Knicks have narrowed the series deficit to 3-2, extending their playoff journey and compelling a Game 6 in Indianapolis.

Brunson was exceptional, amassing 32 points, providing five assists, and securing five rebounds. Karl-Anthony Towns also made a significant contribution, scoring 24 points, including three assists and grabbing 13 rebounds.

From the tip-off, the Knicks displayed dominance, restricting the Pacers to a mere 45 points in the first half. This contrasted sharply with their previous game, where they conceded 43 points in the first quarter alone.

Bennedict Mathurin came off the bench to score 23 points for the Pacers and pulled down nine rebounds. However, Indiana’s overall field goal percentage was only 40.5%, marking their lowest-scoring output in the postseason.

Pacers coach Rick Carlisle acknowledged the team’s lackluster showing, stating that their performance fell short of expectations.

Carlisle’s Statement:

“It’s clear that we didn’t compete with the intensity required. We were outmatched in rebounding and committed more turnovers. Our shooting was subpar. The Knicks played a significant role in that, so we commend them and recognize the need for improvement,” Carlisle commented.

Brunson initiated the game strongly, scoring 14 points on six-for-nine shooting in the first quarter, helping the Knicks establish a 27-23 lead.

The Knicks continued their commanding play in the second and third quarters, scoring 29-22 and 34-28, respectively, extending their advantage to 17 points.

The Pacers are set to host the Knicks for Game 6 of the series on Saturday in Indianapolis.