New York Knicks vs. Indiana Pacers Game 2: Pacers Take 2-0 Lead in Eastern Conference Finals

Pacers Grab 2-0 Lead Over Knicks in Tight Eastern Conference Finals Battle

This wasn’t your average playoff game—Game 2 between the Indiana Pacers and the New York Knicks had everything: high stakes, rising tensions, and jaw-dropping performances. On May 23, 2025, fans at Madison Square Garden expected the Knicks to bounce back but saw the Pacers slip away with a 114-109 win, making it a 2-0 series lead as the teams now head to Indiana.

The Knicks had the home crowd advantage, but the Pacers seemed unfazed. Pascal Siakam, who’s no stranger to big moments from his time as an NBA champion, turned it up to another level this night. He put in a playoff career-high—dropping 39 points with a mix of relentless drives and smooth jumpers, while also grabbing five boards. When the Knicks threatened late, it was Siakam who silenced the arena with a pair of clutch baskets. Tyrese Haliburton took on the playmaker’s role, finishing with a near triple-double of 14 points, 8 rebounds, and 11 assists. His orchestration of Indiana’s offense pulled New York’s defense in every direction, and his energy set the tone on both ends of the court.

New York didn’t go down without a fight. Jalen Brunson, once again proving why he’s the heartbeat of the Knicks, poured in 36 points and dished out 11 assists despite hounding defense from Indiana. He knocked down five triples, each igniting hope in the Garden. But with Indiana’s defenders tightening every passing lane and forcing tough shots in the fourth quarter, the Knicks just couldn’t build enough momentum to reclaim the lead.

What stood out was Indiana’s resilience late in the game. When the Knicks trimmed the deficit to just three points in the final minutes, the Pacers answered—never once looking rattled in the Garden’s raucous atmosphere. Andrew Nembhard, Myles Turner, and the rest chipped in with timely baskets and defensive stops, spreading the scoring load beyond just their stars.

How to Watch, What’s Next, and What’s at Stake

Game 2 aired live on TNT, but for anyone wanting to tune in on the go, NBA League Pass and ESPN+ carried the game as well (though local blackout rules still apply for some). With another high-intensity matchup coming, Game 3 is set for May 25 in Indiana, tipping off at 8 p.m. ET—fans can catch it again on TNT.

The regular season favored the Knicks in this matchup (New York took the series 2-1), and after a dramatic toss-up in their opening game that went to overtime, this second loss stings. The Pacers, opening a 2-0 lead, have set themselves up as the favorites to move on, but no one in New York is counting the Knicks out just yet.

• Game 1 Recap: Pacers won a thriller 138-135 in OT
• Game 2 Key Stat: Siakam’s 39 points set a new postseason best
• What to Watch: Can the Knicks find answers in Indiana, or will the Pacers’ balanced attack keep rolling?

Both teams know the next game could swing the momentum for good. If the Pacers win, they’ll be one victory from the Finals. But if the Knicks rally, this series could get wild. Stick around—it’s only getting more intense from here.