Knicks vs. Pacers – Game 3 Preview
Sunday, 8:00 p.m. ET • Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis
Our Pick: Pacers -1.5

Tonight’s Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Finals features the Indiana Pacers hosting the New York Knicks at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, with Indiana holding a commanding 2-0 series lead. After two impressive road victories, the Pacers return home aiming to capitalize on their momentum and inch closer to securing a trip to the NBA Finals. Given their performance thus far, Indiana is strongly favored to cover the -1.5 spread.

Indiana’s balanced scoring has been a significant factor in their playoff success. Game 2 highlighted this strength, as all five Pacers starters scored in double figures. Pascal Siakam delivered a playoff career-best 39 points, illustrating his capability as the primary scoring threat. Complementing Siakam, Tyrese Haliburton orchestrated the offense masterfully, nearly securing a triple-double with 14 points, 11 assists, and 8 rebounds. Haliburton’s command of the pace and precision passing have continuously disrupted the Knicks’ defensive schemes.

The Knicks, meanwhile, face several critical challenges. Defensively, they have struggled significantly, particularly in transition, where Indiana has consistently capitalized on turnovers and missed opportunities. Karl-Anthony Towns, despite his offensive talents, has notably struggled defensively. His Game 2 plus-minus rating of -20 underscores the urgent need for defensive improvements. Additionally, New York’s turnover issues have provided Indiana with ample fast-break scoring chances, a trend they must quickly rectify to remain competitive.

In response, the Knicks are reportedly considering a lineup adjustment, potentially inserting Mitchell Robinson into the starting rotation over Josh Hart. Robinson’s presence could enhance rim protection and rebounding; however, such changes mid-series reflect the Knicks’ current vulnerabilities rather than a strength. Historically, drastic lineup shifts at this playoff stage often disrupt team rhythm, further supporting the Pacers’ advantage entering tonight’s contest.

The Pacers’ strong home-court performance throughout the playoffs, with a 4-1 home record, adds another dimension favoring Indiana. Given their current momentum, consistent offensive production, and New York’s defensive struggles, the Pacers are well-positioned not only to win Game 3 but also comfortably cover the modest -1.5 spread.