Knicks vs. Pacers – Game 6 Preview
Saturday, 8:00 p.m. ET • Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis
Our Pick: Knicks +4

As the New York Knicks enter Game 6 of the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals tonight against the Indiana Pacers, they’re faced with a do-or-die scenario. Trailing the series 3-2, New York’s commanding 111-94 victory in Game 5 has injected fresh momentum and confidence into their postseason push. Given their performance adjustments and strategic approach, the Knicks are poised to cover the +4 spread and potentially force a thrilling Game 7.

A key factor in the Knicks’ resurgence is the extraordinary play of Jalen Brunson. Brunson delivered yet another standout performance in Game 5, tallying 32 points and reinforcing his critical role as the team’s offensive catalyst. His playoff run now includes ten games with at least 30 points and 5 assists, a rare achievement matched only by NBA legends Michael Jordan and LeBron James. Brunson’s consistency in high-pressure scenarios makes him instrumental to the Knicks’ chances tonight.

Complementing Brunson’s offensive prowess, Karl-Anthony Towns has also been pivotal. Despite ongoing concerns with a nagging knee issue, Towns provided crucial interior strength, recording a double-double with 24 points and 13 rebounds in the previous matchup. His ability to dominate the paint and stretch the defense with perimeter shooting provides a challenging matchup for Indiana’s frontcourt.

Coach Tom Thibodeau’s adjustments have been notably effective, particularly his decision to utilize Delon Wright and Landry Shamet more significantly in the rotation. Shamet’s perimeter defense and Wright’s savvy ball-handling have improved New York’s control late in games, evidenced by the Pacers’ struggles in fourth quarters, where they now carry a -8.3 net rating.

Meanwhile, Indiana’s home-court advantage has indeed been significant throughout the playoffs. However, their recent offensive struggles, highlighted by Tyrese Haliburton’s limited scoring in Game 5, indicate vulnerabilities New York can exploit. The Knicks have demonstrated their capacity to disrupt Indiana’s rhythm, forcing turnovers and limiting easy baskets.

Considering New York’s robust road performances—holding an impressive 6-2 postseason away record—and the momentum they’ve garnered from Game 5, the Knicks stand in an excellent position to cover the +4 spread. If they maintain their aggressive defensive pressure and capitalize on Brunson and Towns’ offensive strengths, expect a competitive and potentially series-extending performance tonight.