Will the New York Knicks regroup from their devastating Game 1 collapse, or will the Indiana Pacers capitalize?

Catch the game tomorrow at 8:00 AM, Manila time.

AWAY: Indiana Pacers (1-0)

Projected starting five:

• Tyrese Haliburton
• Andrew Nembhard
• Aaron Nesmith
• Pascal Siakam
• Myles Turner

The resilient Pacers continue their magical playoff run with yet another improbable comeback – their third last-minute rally of the 2025 postseason. Tyrese Haliburton’s 31-point, 11-assist performance anchored the offense, but it was Aaron Nesmith’s unconscious shooting (6 straight threes, including three in the final minute) that stole the show and completed the stunning overtime victory.

Indiana’s confidence is sky-high after proving they can overcome any deficit against New York’s defense. While Haliburton and Nesmith carried Game 1, the Pacers will look for more from Pascal Siakam and Myles Turner to balance their attack. 

Coach Rick Carlisle’s squad has shown remarkable poise in pressure situations, but must avoid falling into another huge hole against a Knicks team eager for payback. The Pacers’ ability to maintain their offensive rhythm in what promises to be a more hostile MSG environment will be key to stealing a 2-0 series lead.

HOME: New York Knicks (0-1)

Projected starting five:

• Jalen Brunson
• OG Anunoby
• Josh Hart
• Mikal Bridges
• Karl-Anthony Towns

The Knicks enter Game 2 facing serious questions about their mental toughness after one of the most devastating playoff collapses in recent memory. After building a 17-point fourth quarter lead and still leading by 14 with just 2:36 remaining, New York completely unraveled – missing four crucial free throws in the final minutes while watching Aaron Nesmith rain three-pointers to force overtime.

Jalen Brunson (43 points) and Karl-Anthony Towns (35 points) delivered superstar performances that went to waste, leaving the Knicks to ponder how they let Game 1 slip away. The team’s response will reveal their championship mettle – will they bounce back with renewed focus or let the heartbreaking loss linger? 

The Madison Square Garden crowd will be hungry for redemption, and should remain rabid, but the Knicks must channel their frustration into sharper defensive intensity, particularly in closing situations. As always, the wing trio of Josh Hart, OG Anunoby, and Mikal Bridges, especially with how they complement Brunson and Towns, will be key.

PICKS:

Spread: Pacers (+6)

Over/Under: Over (225.5)