Indiana (0-0) at New York (0-0)
- When: May 21 2025, 8:00 PM
- Where: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY, USA
- TV: TNT
NBA Playoffs Preview: Pacers vs. Knicks Game 1
Spread: New York -4.5 | Total: 223.0
New York Knicks Outlook
Fresh off knocking out the defending champs in six games, the Knicks return to MSG looking to keep their postseason run alive against a familiar nemesis. New York dropped last year’s playoff series to Indiana in a bitter seven-game battle, but this time they bring momentum and home-court advantage. The Knicks also took two of three regular-season matchups, thanks in large part to Karl-Anthony Towns, who averaged 30.3 points and 12 boards against Indy.
However, Towns struggled from deep in the last series (3-for-19 from beyond the arc), and that could spell trouble if the Pacers trap and force him outside. That said, Jalen Brunson remains the Knicks’ rock, and he’ll need to set the tone against rival Tyrese Haliburton.
Knicks Player Prop Picks:
Karl-Anthony Towns Over 22.5 Points
Jalen Brunson Over 7.5 Assists
Indiana Pacers Outlook
Don’t call them underdogs Indiana is playing like a team with something to prove. After dismantling the Cavs in five, the Pacers head into Game 1 well-rested and fully aware of the playoff history between them and New York. Tyrese Haliburton, who torched the Knicks last year and trolled Spike Lee post-series, is back to haunt MSG once again.
Indiana may have lost the regular-season series, but Haliburton’s 35-point, 14-assist performance and Bennedict Mathurin’s 38-point explosion in their lone win show they have firepower. The Pacers also have one of the most balanced attacks left in the postseason. They’re not relying on one star they’re thriving on cohesion and effort.
Pacers Player Prop Picks:
Tyrese Haliburton Over 8.5 Assists
Bennedict Mathurin Over 9.5 Points
Game 1 Prediction and Final Score
Expect a high-energy opener with plenty of storyline-driven fireworks. If New York’s defense contains Haliburton and the Garden crowd stays lit, they edge out a close one.
Spread: New York -4.5
Toral: Over 224.5
Final Score Prediction: Knicks 116, Pacers 110
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
