The New York Knicks survived a thrilling Game 1 of their second-round series against the Indiana Pacers. But can the Knickerbockers do it again this Thursday before hitting the road for Game 3? Or, will the Pacers tie the series up at 1-1 after a heartbreaking loss?
Catch this game live on Thursday, May 9, 2024 at 8:00 AM, Manila time.
Away: Indiana Pacers (0-1)
Projected Starting Five:
- Tyrese Haliburton
- Andrew Nembhard
- Aaron Nesmith
- Pascal Siakam
- Myles Turner
Although they lost in the series opener, 121-117, the Pacers must have gained respect for making it tough for the Knicks. If it weren’t for a couple of brutal calls in favor of New York late in the game, Indiana probably would have stolen a win in Game 1 on the road. Another huge What If for the Pacers in that game was the play of Tyrese Haliburton, who scored just six points on 2/6 shooting from the field.
He recorded eight assists and had four steals, so he didn’t really turn into a ghost like Tobias Harris, but he definitely could have done better. Meanwhile, Haliburton’s backup, TJ McConnell continues to be effective while still flying under the radar. McConnell had 18 bench points on 9/16 shooting with three steals in Game 1 of the Knicks series. Another good sign for the Pacers is the fact that they outshot New York in the series opener by six shots even though Indiana got outrebounded, 40-32.
The Pacers are 3-1 against the spread in their last four road games against New York.
Home: New York Knicks (1-0)
Projected Starting Five:
- Jalen Brunson
- Donte DiVincenzo
- Josh Hart
- OG Anunoby
- Isaiah Hartenstein
The Villanova Trio struck again for the Knicks. If Donte DiVincenzo, Josh Hart, and Jaylen Brunson continue what they’re doing, the Knicks management might have to make a call and hire Jay Wright. Brunson, in particular, was spectacular in Game 1, as he scored 43 points on 14/26 shooting from the field and 14/14 from the foul line. DiVincenzo and Hart, meanwhile, scored 25 and 24 points, respectively.
With their performances, the three became just the first set of teammates who came from the same college and produced at least 20 points each in the same game in the NBA Playoffs. Brunson is a headache for the Pacers because of his ability to make buckets and draw fouls; DiVincenzo for his outside shooting; and Hart for his rebounding. They all score but each also greatly provides what the other two can’t consistently.
The Knicks are 5-5 against the spread in their last 10 home games.
Picks
Spread: Indiana Pacers (+5.0)
Over/Under: Over (220.0)
