Pacers vs. Knicks – Game 1 Preview
Wednesday, 8:00 p.m. ET • Madison Square Garden, New York City
Our Pick: Knicks -4.5

The stage is set at Madison Square Garden tonight as the New York Knicks host the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of the highly anticipated 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Finals. With the Knicks favored by 4.5 points, several key elements make them a strong candidate to cover the spread in this pivotal series opener.

The Knicks enter this contest with significant momentum, fresh off an impressive six-game series victory over the reigning NBA champion Boston Celtics. Throughout that series, New York showcased depth, resilience, and exceptional playmaking, particularly from star guard Jalen Brunson. Brunson has been a dominant figure this postseason, averaging nearly 29 points and over seven assists per game. His leadership and clutch performances have consistently lifted the Knicks during crucial moments, a factor that will undoubtedly play a pivotal role against Indiana.

Adding to New York’s advantage is their solid home-court record at MSG. During the regular season, the Knicks secured a notable 27-14 home record, thriving on the energy and atmosphere of their passionate fanbase. The crowd’s intensity often translates into defensive energy, where the Knicks have excelled, limiting opponents’ offensive opportunities through disciplined rotations and robust interior presence.

Karl-Anthony Towns complements Brunson’s perimeter threat with his significant contributions inside. Towns’ rebounding, scoring ability, and defensive presence offer critical balance, particularly against Indiana’s versatile and talented frontcourt led by Pascal Siakam. The Knicks’ ability to leverage Towns effectively in pick-and-roll scenarios, paired with Brunson’s playmaking, presents substantial challenges for Indiana’s defense.

On the other side, the Pacers boast considerable offensive firepower, primarily through Tyrese Haliburton, whose playoff averages of 18 points and nine assists per game highlight his indispensable role as the team’s facilitator. However, New York’s defensive scheme, especially perimeter defense anchored by wing defenders adept at switching and contesting shots, is specifically designed to contain dynamic guards like Haliburton.

Ultimately, Game 1’s outcome hinges on the Knicks’ ability to capitalize on their strengths: exploiting home-court advantage, defensive efficiency, and Brunson’s stellar play. Considering these factors, the Knicks are positioned favorably to cover the 4.5-point spread and set the tone early in the Eastern Conference Finals.