Jalen Brunson stepped up when it mattered most. The New York Knicks staved off elimination with a crucial home win over the Indiana Pacers.
The 111-94 result at Madison Square Garden cut Indiana’s series lead to 3-2. Now, the Knicks have renewed hope of reaching the NBA Finals.
Brunson Leads the Charge for the Knicks
Jalen Brunson once again showed why he is the heartbeat of the Knicks (16.14). He scored 32 points in a dominant performance that gave New York a lifeline in the Eastern Conference Finals. His aggressive play and leadership helped energise both his teammates and the home crowd.
The Knicks led from start to finish, maintaining control throughout the match. By half-time, they had built a comfortable 56-45 lead. Brunson’s ability to find space and create shots kept the Pacers’ defence under constant pressure.
Although Indiana made several attempts to close the gap, Brunson ensured the Knicks stayed in command. Every time the Pacers threatened to rally, the Knicks found a response. This result sets up a must-win Game Six in Indiana.
Towns Plays Through Pain to Deliver Big Performance
Karl-Anthony Towns made a significant impact despite battling a knee injury. The star forward tallied 24 points and 13 rebounds, putting in a gritty and determined effort. His performance gave the Knicks a powerful inside presence.
Speaking after the match, Towns summed up the stakes clearly, as per BBC Sport. “I looked at the game, and it was ‘game five, do or die’. That was pretty much all I needed to see.” His 17 points and 10 rebounds in the first half helped New York build early momentum.
Towns added further motivation heading into the next clash. “We have no room for error,” he said. “Our backs are against the wall, and every game is do or die. If we don’t bring that energy or execution, our season will be over.”
With the series now back in play, Towns’ resilience and leadership could prove vital. His presence on both ends of the court was felt all night, especially during key runs.
Hart and Bridges Step Up in the Fourth Quarter
While Brunson and Towns set the pace, others also made their mark. Josh Hart delivered key baskets in the final quarter just as Indiana started to threaten. His back-to-back scores stopped the Pacers’ momentum and settled the nerves.
Mikal Bridges followed that up with a smooth jumper, extending the Knicks’ lead to 18 points. These timely plays helped shut the door on any late comeback. New York’s bench also added energy, supporting the starters with strong defensive efforts.
Although Indiana cut the deficit to 12 points with eight minutes left, they never got closer. The Knicks showed improved execution and poise, something they lacked in previous games.
Haliburton Struggles in Key Game
Indiana star Tyrese Haliburton had dominated Game Four with 30 points and 15 assists. However, Game Five was a different story entirely. He was restricted to just eight points and six assists.
Haliburton acknowledged his poor performance post-match. “Rough night for me,” he admitted. “I’ve got to be better at setting the tone and getting downhill. I feel I didn’t do a great job of that.”
He also noted the Knicks’ defensive pressure. “They picked up the pressure a little bit and applied more as the game went on. Put it on me, I’ve got to be better in game six.” His performance will be crucial if Indiana hopes to close out the series at home.
Without Haliburton firing on all cylinders, the Pacers struggled to match the Knicks’ intensity. Bennedict Mathurin did his part with 23 points and nine rebounds off the bench. But it was not enough to overcome New York’s cohesive team play.
What to Expect in Game Six
Online sports betting odds have been affected following New York’s win. Momentum appears to have shifted slightly in favour of the Knicks. However, Indiana remains in control of the series.
Both teams know what is at stake. With every possession counting, Game Six promises to be an intense battle. If the Knicks can maintain their defensive pressure and get similar production from their stars, a Game Seven could be on the horizon.
