Indiana decimates New York to level their East semis series at 2-2

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

The Indiana Pacers unleashed its most dominant performance of the Eastern Conference semifinals so far after overpowering the New York Knicks, 121-89, to equalize the series at 2-2 in the ongoing NBA Playoffs on May 13, 2024.

After three close games, the Pacers finally got the start that they wanted and just ran over New York in the opening 12 minutes of the game to establish a sizable 20-point advantage, 34-14.

Despite a faster tempo that the Knicks applied in the second quarter to free their shooters up in wings, the Pacers countered back with their fast break actions to extend their cushion to 28 points at the half.

It was pretty much over after New York failed to find their footing in the third, getting outscored again by Indiana that swelled up the lead to 38 points with still a quarter remaining.

The Knicks’ head coach Tom Thibodeau then decided to pull out all of his starters early in the fourth and waved the white flag in preparation for the upcoming Game 5 back in their home court at New York.

From the get-go, the Pacers just wore the Knicks out with their crazy pace, executing their offense with quick drag screens while also pushing the ball fast before the New York defense can set up in the perimeter.

Tyrese Haliburton had another huge performance for the Pacers after stuffing the stat sheets with 20 points, six rebounds, and five assists.

Meanwhile, backup floor general TJ McConnell had an efficient outing in just 20 minutes of action and dropped 15 markers, 10 dimes, four boards, and two steals.

The Indiana bench mob also did their part with Obi Toppin spearheading the attack with 14 points built from an efficient 6/11 shooting from the field.

On the other hand, Alec Burks and Jalen Brunson were the only bright performers for the Knicks as the duo delivered 20 and 18 points, respectively.