The 2025 Eastern Conference Finals delivered a classic showdown between two legacy franchises: the New York Knicks and the Indiana Pacers. Game 6, held on May 31, 2025, was not only a decisive battle in the series—it became a defining moment for both franchises this season.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the Knicks vs Pacers match player stats, analyze performances that shaped the game, compare team dynamics, and look at what the result means for the future of both squads. Whether you’re a stats enthusiast or a casual basketball fan, this breakdown provides all the essential details.
Game Overview: Knicks vs Pacers Game 6 Recap
Series Context
Before Game 6, the Indiana Pacers led the series 3-2. The New York Knicks, trailing, faced a must-win situation on their home court. However, Indiana entered Madison Square Garden with confidence and resilience, aiming to close out the series and secure their first NBA Finals appearance since 2000.
Final Score
Indiana Pacers 117 – New York Knicks 102
The Pacers sealed the series 4-2 with a commanding performance that overwhelmed New York in the second half.
Player Performance Breakdown
Indiana Pacers vs Knicks Match Player Stats
Indiana Pacers Top Performers
-
Pascal Siakam – 31 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists
Siakam was unstoppable in the paint and mid-range, delivering high-efficiency scoring that led the Pacers’ offense. -
Tyrese Haliburton – 21 points, 13 assists, 2 steals
The floor general dictated tempo and created quality shots, demonstrating poise under playoff pressure. -
Myles Turner – 17 points, 10 rebounds, 3 blocks
Turner’s presence in the paint proved crucial on both ends, altering shots and cleaning the glass. -
Andrew Nembhard – 14 points, 6 assists
Nembhard brought pace and intelligence, often exploiting gaps in the Knicks’ defense.
New York Knicks Top Performers
-
Jalen Brunson – 27 points, 5 assists, 3 rebounds
Despite dealing with injury late in the game, Brunson carried the Knicks offensively as he has all postseason. -
Donte DiVincenzo – 19 points, 4 rebounds
DiVincenzo showed flashes of brilliance but lacked consistency as the Pacers’ defense tightened. -
Josh Hart – 11 points, 12 rebounds, 5 assists
Known for his hustle, Hart impacted the game in multiple areas but couldn’t lift the Knicks out of their deficit.
Team Statistics Comparison
| Statistic | Indiana Pacers | New York Knicks |
|---|---|---|
| Field Goal % | 53.2% | 45.7% |
| Three-Point % | 37.9% | 31.4% |
| Free Throws | 18/21 | 15/18 |
| Rebounds | 47 | 42 |
| Assists | 27 | 19 |
| Turnovers | 10 | 13 |
| Fast Break Points | 18 | 9 |
The Pacers dominated several key categories, notably in field goal percentage and ball movement. Their 27 assists underscored a collective offensive approach, while the Knicks leaned more on individual efforts.
Turning Points in the Game
First Half: Neck-and-Neck Battle
Both teams exchanged leads through the first two quarters, with Brunson and Haliburton trading buckets. At halftime, Indiana led by just three points.
Third Quarter: Pacers Pull Away
Indiana opened the third quarter on a 15-4 run. Siakam scored 10 points in a five-minute span, helping create separation that New York never recovered from.
Fourth Quarter: Closing with Authority
The Knicks tried to rally but suffered a critical blow when Jalen Brunson exited with a foot injury. From that point, the Pacers controlled tempo, spacing, and scoring.
Historical Context: Knicks vs Pacers Matches
The rivalry between the Knicks and Pacers has spanned decades. From the battles of the 1990s featuring Reggie Miller and Patrick Ewing, to today’s younger generation, every chapter adds new intensity.
This Game 6 added another entry into the saga, marking the Pacers’ first playoff series win over the Knicks since 2013 and their first Finals berth in 25 years.
Post-Game Reactions
Indiana Pacers
Coach Rick Carlisle emphasized team balance:
“Everyone bought into their role. That’s what wins playoff series—commitment and defense.”
Tyrese Haliburton, now an undisputed star, remarked:
“We stayed focused. Our goal wasn’t just the ECF. We’re going for the championship.”
New York Knicks
Coach Tom Thibodeau pointed to injuries and lack of rhythm:
“We fought hard all season. But we ran into a great team—and some tough luck.”
Jalen Brunson’s injury remains a concern moving forward.
What This Means Going Forward
For the Pacers
This win solidifies Indiana as a real contender in the East. With a balanced roster, rising stars, and solid coaching, they will face either the Denver Nuggets or Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals.
For the Knicks
Though disappointing, this playoff run proved that the Knicks are close to elite status. A healthy roster and continued development could make them even more dangerous in 2026.
FAQs
What were the key player stats in the Knicks vs Pacers match?
Pascal Siakam led all scorers with 31 points. Tyrese Haliburton added 21 points and 13 assists for Indiana. Jalen Brunson had 27 points for New York.
Where can I find a full box score for the Indiana Pacers vs Knicks match?
Official NBA sources and sports news outlets like ESPN and Sportskeeda provide full box scores and advanced metrics for each game.
How many times have the Knicks and Pacers faced off in playoff matches?
The Knicks and Pacers have faced off in the playoffs seven times since 1993, with the rivalry gaining national attention in the late ’90s.
Did any injuries affect the outcome of Game 6?
Yes, Jalen Brunson suffered a foot injury in the fourth quarter, significantly impacting the Knicks’ ability to mount a comeback.
What’s next for the Indiana Pacers?
The Pacers will advance to the NBA Finals, where they’ll face the winner of the Western Conference Finals.
Conclusion
The Knicks vs Pacers match player stats from Game 6 reveal more than just numbers—they tell the story of a team on the rise and another on the cusp of greatness. With standout performances, strategic brilliance, and playoff intensity, this game captured everything fans love about basketball.
As the Pacers vs Knicks match player stats show, the better team won on both ends of the court. For Indiana, the journey continues. For New York, it’s back to the drawing board, but with plenty to build on.
If you’re following future Knicks vs Pacers matches, keep an eye on this rivalry—it’s far from over.
I am a content writer with 5 years of experience and a degree in English Literature. Specializing in lifestyle, food, and health, she creates engaging, research-driven content.
