Siakam’s 31 Points Propel Pacers to NBA Finals

INDIANAPOLIS: With a commanding performance in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals, veteran forward Pascal Siakam propelled the Indiana Pacers to their first NBA Finals appearance since 2000.

The Cameroonian standout now aims to secure his second NBA championship.

Siakam’s 31 points and three blocked shots fueled the Pacers’ 125-108 triumph over the New York Knicks on Saturday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, marking his third 30-point game in the series.

Siakam, who won an NBA title with the Toronto Raptors in 2019, demonstrated composure and accuracy throughout the series.

He made 10 of 18 field goals and was crucial to Indiana’s dominant transition game, where the Pacers surpassed the Knicks 106-48 in fast-break points during the series.

“Pascal Siakam already possesses an NBA championship ring and now has an opportunity to claim another.”

Indiana’s head coach, Rick Carlisle, praised the 30-year-old for his steadiness and leadership.

“He’s so deserving. This guy has been incredibly consistent all year,” Carlisle remarked.

Siakam, now the seasoned playoff veteran on a young Pacers team, reflected on his past championship experience and its amplified significance.

“That year was my third year. I was just a young player. I thought getting back here would be straightforward,” Siakam stated.

“I appreciate it much more now because I know how challenging it is to reach this stage.”

The Indiana Pacers are set to compete against the Western Conference champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, in the NBA Finals. Game 1 is scheduled for Thursday night in Oklahoma City.