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Knicks and Pacers Renew Playoff Rivalry in 2025 Eastern Conference Finals
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New York and Indiana battle for a spot in the NBA Finals, reigniting a classic postseason matchup.
NEW YORK – The New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers are once again facing off in the playoffs, this time with a trip to the NBA finals at stake. The 2025 Eastern Conference finals mark the latest chapter in the storied New York-Indiana postseason rivalry, as both teams vie for their first NBA Finals appearance in over two decades. Currently, the Pacers hold a 2-1 series advantage, but the Knicks gained crucial momentum with a Game 3 comeback victory in Indiana. Game 4 is scheduled for Tuesday night.
The Knicks’ journey to the Eastern conference finals, their first since 2000, involved eliminating the defending champion Boston Celtics in six games during the second round. They also defeated the Detroit Pistons in six games in the first round.Jalen Brunson has been a standout performer throughout the playoffs, averaging 28.8 points per game and delivering clutch performances in the fourth quarter.
The Pacers advanced to this stage by defeating both the Milwaukee Bucks and Cleveland Cavaliers in five games each. Last season, Indiana defeated the Knicks in the second round before being swept by the Celtics in the Eastern Conference finals.
The Pacers last reached the NBA Finals in 2000, after defeating the Knicks in the East finals. The knicks’ last appearance in the NBA Finals was in 1999, when they also defeated the Pacers in the East finals.
Eastern Conference Finals Schedule
All times Eastern
Game 1: Pacers 138, Knicks 135 (OT)
Game 2: Pacers 114, Knicks 109
Game 3: Pacers 106, Knicks 100 — Indiana leads 2-1
Game 4: Tuesday, May 27 | Knicks vs. Pacers | 8 p.m., TNT/Max
Game 5: thursday, May 29 | Pacers vs. Knicks | 8 p.m., TNT/Max
Game 6: Saturday, May 31 | Knicks vs. Pacers | 8 p.m., TNT/Max
Game 7: Monday, June 2 | Pacers vs. Knicks | 8 p.m., TNT/Max
series Odds and game 4 Predictions
Here’s a look at the latest odds and a best bet for Game 4:
- Series odds: pacers -220, Knicks +184
- Game 4 odds: Pacers -2.5, O/U 221
Knicks vs. Pacers: Game 4 best bet
Coming before Tuesday’s Game 4.
understanding the Knicks-Pacers Rivalry
The Knicks and Pacers have a long and storied history in the NBA playoffs, marked by intense competition and memorable moments. Their rivalry reached its peak in the late 1990s, with multiple Eastern Conference finals matchups that defined the era. Key players and coaches from both sides have contributed to the drama, creating a compelling narrative that continues to resonate with fans today.
Several factors contribute to the intensity of the knicks-Pacers rivalry.Both teams have historically been built around tough, physical play, leading to hard-fought games and heightened emotions. The stakes are always high when these two teams meet in the playoffs, with a trip to the NBA Finals often on the line. The passionate fan bases in New York and Indiana further amplify the atmosphere, creating an electric environment for every game.
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