The NBA playoffs roar into the Eastern Conference Finals as the New York Knicks face the Indiana Pacers in one of the most anticipated series of 2025. After thrilling wins in their respective semifinals, both teams aim to punch their ticket to the NBA Finals. In this article, we break down the Knicks vs Pacers matchup, examine key players, recent trends, and recount the storied history between these two franchises.

A Clash Decades in the Making

This year marks a special moment for Knicks fans. For the first time since 2000, New York is back in the Eastern Conference Finals. The path wasn't easy. The Knicks delivered a stunning 38-point win over the defending champion Celtics in Game 6, securing their place in franchise history. Their defensive intensity and player contributions were pivotal—Jalen Brunson led offensively, while Mitchell Robinson anchored the paint (NBA.com: 5 takeaways from Knicks vs Celtics).

The Pacers, too, fought hard to advance. Indiana overcame the Cleveland Cavaliers, led by All-Star Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam. Their balanced roster and fresh legs from a longer rest period could be decisive factors as they travel to Madison Square Garden—one of basketball’s most legendary arenas (Yahoo Sports: Pacers vs Knicks Game 1 Preview).

Knicks vs Pacers: Game 1 Preview and Predictions

Game 1 promises high-energy action, with both teams coming off major playoff performances. Oddsmakers give New York a slight edge at home, where their starters have thrived in the postseason. Jalen Brunson, who had 23 points against Boston, is expected to make a strong impact. Pacers guard Haliburton is also in excellent shape, having led his team in scoring throughout earlier rounds.

According to experts, momentum may rest with the Knicks, who are backed by a passionate home crowd. However, the Pacers have proven to be road warriors, winning four straight games away from Indiana this postseason. Betting models suggest a tight contest, possibly stretching to six or seven games, with New York holding a slight advantage (Yahoo Sports: Game 1 Odds and Predictions).

Key stats before Game 1:

• Knicks are 2-0 in Game 1s during the playoffs
• Pacers are also 2-0 in Game 1s this postseason
• Brunson has averaged over 29 points in both of the Knicks’ Game 1s

Revisiting Classic Rivalries

The Knicks vs Pacers matchup reignites one of the fiercest rivalries in NBA history. These teams have met eight times previously in the playoffs, including unforgettable battles in the 1990s and early 2000s. The last time they faced off in the Eastern Conference Finals was in 2000, a series that saw Indiana advance after six tough games.

Much has changed, but some familiar faces remain connected through generational ties. Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau was an assistant during the 2000 run, and Rick Brunson—father of current Knicks star Jalen Brunson—played in that series. Connections like these add layers of intrigue to a clash that already pulses with playoff energy (ESPN: Knicks return to Conference Finals after 25 years).

Star Power and X-Factors

For the Knicks, much depends on Brunson’s scoring and Josh Hart’s all-around play. Mitchell Robinson’s defense and rebounding may again prove crucial, especially if Indiana tries to speed up the tempo. The Pacers counter with Haliburton’s playmaking and Siakam’s scoring touch.

Depth and flexibility could tip the scales. Experts point to Indiana’s fresh legs and New York’s ability to rise to the moment in must-win games. A wild card will be whether the Knicks can continue their offensive flow and defensive intensity, or if fatigue from heavy minutes will appear.

What’s at Stake

The Knicks vs Pacers series is more than just a ticket to the NBA Finals. It’s about franchise pride, rewriting histories, and the chance for a new era of stars to cement their legacy. For Knicks fans, it’s a long-awaited return to basketball’s biggest stage. For Pacers supporters, it’s a chance to break through and prove their team belongs among the NBA elite.

Conclusion: Don’t Miss the Action

With momentum, history, and high stakes in play, every game between the Knicks and Pacers promises drama and intensity. Whether you’re a longtime NBA fan or getting into the playoffs for the first time, this is a series you won’t want to miss. Stay updated with the latest playoff coverage and schedule as the race to the NBA Finals continues.

For more in-depth analysis and background on both teams, check out NBA.com’s takeaways on the Knicks’ semifinals, Yahoo Sports’ Game 1 predictions, and ESPN’s look back at the Knicks’ last Conference Finals run.