The Indiana Pacers are in a strong position in the Eastern Conference finals, leading 2-0 against the New York Knicks after a hard-fought 114-109 victory on Friday night. Pascal Siakam delivered a standout performance, scoring a playoff career-high of 39 points, supported by Myles Turner with 16 points and Tyrese Haliburton, who recorded 14 points, 11 assists, and eight rebounds. Siakam’s shooting efficiency was remarkable, hitting 15 of 23 attempts, a significant contribution as no other Pacers player scored more than five baskets.
The game featured a close contest, especially in the fourth quarter where the score was tied at 81. The Pacers surged ahead early in the final period with a 13-4 run, maintaining a lead despite the Knicks’ efforts to rally. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 36 points and 11 assists, while Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns each added 20 points. However, the Knicks struggled to convert crucial scoring opportunities, particularly in the fourth, and now face the challenge of a comeback after losing two home games.
Coach Tom Thibodeau expressed the need for his team to make better plays to clinch the series, as historically, no team has managed to recover from losing the first two home games in the conference finals. Game 3 is set for Sunday in Indiana, coinciding with the Indianapolis 500, and the Pacers hope to capitalize on their recent road success, having won six straight away games since the playoffs began. The rivalry’s playoff history adds intensity to the matchup, reminiscent of their classic 1990s encounters.
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