The stakes continue to rise in the NBA Playoffs as the Eastern Conference Finals head into Game 2. After a dramatic and chaotic finish to Game 1, the Indiana Pacers ride into Madison Square Garden with momentum and mischief on their side, while the New York Knicks are left to regroup from a shocking collapse. Thursday night promises a bruising battle in one of the most storied arenas in basketball, as two fierce rivals look to either seize or save the narrative.
Indiana’s comeback in Game 1 was one for the ages – erasing a 14-point deficit in the final three minutes before clinching a 138-135 overtime thriller. New York, having let victory slip from their grasp in heartbreaking fashion, must bounce back immediately or risk heading to Indiana in a 0-2 hole. Expect fire, tension, and no shortage of theatrics as the curtain rises again in the Big Apple.
Indiana Pacers at New York Knicks
Match Info
- NBA Eastern Conference Finals – Game 2
- Friday 23 May 2025 – 20:00 EST / 01:00 BST (24 May)
- Madison Square Garden, New York City, USA
Indiana Pacers
The Pacers arrive for Game 2 fuelled by adrenaline and playoff bravado. Their dramatic comeback in Game 1 was powered by offensive flair, clutch shooting, and relentless belief. Tyrese Haliburton continues to evolve as a commanding floor general, posting 31 points and 11 assists in the opener. But it was Aaron Nesmith who stole the headlines, draining eight of nine shots from beyond the arc en route to a career-high-tying 30-point performance. Indiana’s ability to catch fire from deep – especially in high-pressure moments – is a major asset. However, their victory wasn’t without blemishes, particularly in allowing the Knicks to build such a commanding lead early. If Indiana can tighten up defensively while maintaining their offensive tempo, they could very well return home with a commanding lead in the series.
New York Knicks
The Knicks must confront the psychological scars of a late-game collapse that turned jubilation into despair. Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns were magnificent in Game 1, combining for 78 points on 61.9% shooting, but their heroics were ultimately overshadowed by defensive lapses and stagnant offensive sets in crunch time. Josh Hart and OG Anunoby acknowledged the drop in energy late in the fourth, a problem the Knicks simply cannot afford to repeat. This game represents a mental and tactical crossroads – head coach Tom Thibodeau will need to reinvigorate his side’s intensity and ensure they can sustain it across four quarters. The raucous New York crowd will expect a response, and anything short of a statement performance could spell serious trouble.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
New York Knicks to win
Backed by their home crowd and fuelled by the pain of their Game 1 meltdown, the Knicks are primed to punch back. Their offensive execution was solid for the majority of the opener, and a sharper focus on defence – particularly against the perimeter – could prove decisive. Expect a more physical, controlled approach from New York as they look to level the series.
America Bet Score Prediction
Indiana 121 – 126 New York
Both teams have shown they can score in bunches, and another high-octane contest is likely. However, with adjustments made and intensity raised, the Knicks should come out on top in a slightly more contained but still explosive encounter.
America Bet Betting Tips
- New York Knicks to win
- Over 241.5 total points
- Jalen Brunson to score 30+ points
- Tyrese Haliburton over 9.5 assists
- Karl-Anthony Towns to score 25+ points
- Aaron Nesmith over 2.5 three-pointers made
- Game to go to overtime – No
- New York Knicks first half winner
- Both teams to score 60+ in first half
- Tyrese Haliburton to record a double-double
