Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the NBA match.
For the first time in 25 years, the New York Knicks have reached the Conference Finals. Awaiting them are the Indiana Pacers, a team that knocked the Knicks out of last season’s playoffs with a 4:2 series victory and clearly knows how to approach this opponent.
New York Knicks
In Game 6 of the previous series, the New York Knicks encountered minimal resistance from a depleted Boston Celtics squad (119:81). However, that may have left them ill-prepared for the challenge posed by the Indiana Pacers. Offensively, the Knicks have struggled throughout the postseason, averaging only 106.8 points per game. Their core players have been inconsistent, particularly Ogugua "OG" Anunoby, who has swung between over 20 points in one game and just five in another. Additionally, he hit less than 31% from three-point range in four of the six games against the Boston Celtics.
Indiana Pacers
The Indiana Pacers dispatched one of the Eastern Conference’s top sides, the Cleveland Cavaliers, with a dominant 4:1 series victory in the second round. Their offence, averaging 117.7 points per game, currently stands out as the most consistent in the playoffs. Six players are scoring in double digits, and Tyrese Haliburton is playing with the poise of a seasoned 30-year-old playoff regular. He is posting 17.5 points and 9.3 assists per game, while maintaining just two turnovers on average. Given Jalen Brunson’s questionable defensive approach, the New York Knicks could face a tough outing.
New York Knicks vs Indiana Pacers Prediction
The New York Knicks matched up well against the Boston Celtics, but the Indiana Pacers bring a different style of play and, importantly, have postseason experience at this level. The visitors have had ample time to prepare and look well-equipped to take the opening game.
