In a commanding performance during Game 5 of the knicks vs pacers Eastern Conference Semifinals matchup, the New York Knicks routed the Indiana Pacers 121–91 at Madison Square Garden. Jalen Brunson was the undisputed star, scoring 44 points, dishing out 7 assists, and grabbing 4 rebounds. His scoring spree marked his fifth 40-point game of the 2024 postseason, reinforcing his role as the team’s primary offensive weapon.
The Knicks dominated the boards, out-rebounding the Pacers 53–29, including a remarkable 20–5 edge on the offensive glass. Isaiah Hartenstein was a force inside, collecting 17 rebounds, 12 of them offensive—tying a franchise playoff record. Josh Hart added 18 points and 11 rebounds, while bench players Alec Burks and Miles McBride contributed 18 and 17 points respectively. This depth was critical, especially with injuries sidelining Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson, and OG Anunoby.
The knicks vs pacers series reached a pivotal point with this Game 5 win, giving New York a 3–2 lead. Their defensive intensity held Indiana to just 91 points on 42.9% shooting. Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 22 points and 8 rebounds, while Myles Turner added 16 points. Tyrese Haliburton, averaging nearly 24 points in the series, was limited to just 13 points on 5-of-9 shooting.
Josh Hart’s Selfless Strategy Shifts Series Momentum
In a bold yet selfless move during Game 3 of the knicks vs pacers series, Josh Hart approached head coach Tom Thibodeau about coming off the bench. The change, aimed at boosting team flexibility and matching up better defensively, saw Mitchell Robinson inserted into the starting lineup in Hart’s place. Though he didn’t start, Hart played 34 crucial minutes—more than some starters—and was a vital part of New York’s dramatic 106–100 comeback victory.
Hart’s stat line—8 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 assists—only tells part of the story. His energy and leadership helped spark a 24–7 run that erased a 20-point Pacers lead, completely changing the game’s trajectory. The move was not a surprise within the locker room; Hart had previously discussed the idea with Thibodeau during the preseason and again during their series against Boston. His willingness to prioritize the team over individual recognition solidified his role as one of the Knicks’ emotional leaders.
Looking Ahead: Depth and Grit Define Knicks’ Journey
Though the Knicks dominated Game 5, Indiana bounced back to force a Game 7, eventually shooting a playoff-record 67.1% from the field to eliminate New York and advance to the conference finals. Still, the knicks vs pacers series highlighted the resilience, depth, and character of this New York team.
From Brunson’s scoring to Hart’s unselfish play and Hartenstein’s rebounding dominance, the knicks vs pacers showdown will be remembered for its intensity and turning points. Despite falling short, the Knicks showcased a foundation built on sacrifice, toughness, and leadership—ingredients they’ll look to carry forward into next season.
