Indiana (1-0) at New York (0-1)
- When: May 23 2025, 8:00 PM
- Where: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY, USA
- TV: TNT
Pacers vs. Knicks – Game 2 Preview, Prediction and Player Props
Spread: New York -6.0 | Total: 224.5
Indiana Pacers Outlook
The Pacers walk into Game 2 with house money after stunning the Knicks 138-135 in overtime in Game 1. Indiana trailed by 14 with under three minutes left in regulation before erupting behind a scorching Aaron Nesmith, who hit six 3-pointers in the fourth quarter alone en route to a 30-point performance. Tyrese Haliburton added 31 points and 11 assists, capping regulation with a dramatic long jumper initially thought to be a game-winner until replay revealed his foot was on the line.
Despite his premature Reggie Miller-style choke taunt, Haliburton’s leadership remains a driving force for Indiana’s postseason success. The Pacers are now aiming to go up 2-0 before heading back to Indianapolis.
Pacers Prop Picks:
Tyrese Haliburton Over 9.5 Assists
Aaron Nesmith Over 2.5 Made Threes
New York Knicks Outlook
The Knicks had Game 1 in their grip then fumbled it away. Jalen Brunson dropped 43 points, and Karl-Anthony Towns added 35, but New York’s defense vanished down the stretch. Their 14-point lead with under three minutes left evaporated as the offense slowed and defensive intensity vanished.
Josh Hart admitted the Knicks “played not to lose,” and it showed. Now down 0-1 at home, the pressure is on. Expect head coach Tom Thibodeau to tighten things up defensively and emphasize a more aggressive fourth-quarter finish.
Knicks Prop Picks:
Jalen Brunson Over 29.5 Points
OG Anunoby Over 4.5 Rebounds
Game 2 Prediction and Final Score
Indiana keeps it close again. While another comeback might be a long shot, they’ll cover the spread in a tight contest. The Knicks bounce back at the Garden and take Game 2 to even the series.
Spread: Indiana +6.0
Toral: Over 224.5
Final Score Prediction: New York 116, Indiana 113
Betting Lean: Indiana +6.0 keeps things interesting, and the Over 224.5 is still in play if both teams keep pushing the pace like Game 1.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
