The Pacers erased New York’s early edge with a 32-22 second quarter and carried a nine-point halftime advantage into the break.
New York struck first, taking a 27-26 edge after one, but Indiana answered with a 32-22 second quarter to lead 58-49 at halftime Friday. The Pacers have stretched it to 61-49 early in the third, with Pascal Siakam leading Indiana with 13 points and Karl-Anthony Towns posting 14 points and 10 rebounds for New York. Jalen Brunson has added 13 points and five assists, but the Knicks—6-5 and No. 11 in the power index—need to halt Indiana’s surge; the 4-8, No. 21 Pacers must sustain it. After the break, watch whether New York can regain control inside against Towns and whether Indiana can maintain the scoring pressure that fueled its second-quarter swing.
Key Performers
Pascal Siakam (IND): 13 points, 2 rebounds Karl-Anthony Towns (NYK): 14 points, 10 rebounds Jalen Brunson (NYK): 13 points, 5 assists