After claiming victory in six-game series during the first and second rounds, the New York Knicks find themselves on the brink of elimination, trailing 3-1 after a loss to the Indiana Pacers, 130-121, in Game 4. The series now shifts back to Madison Square Garden for Game 5, presenting New York with a considerable challenge. Winning three consecutive games, even with two home matches, appears to be a daunting task. As attention turns to their next opportunity to narrow the series deficit, it is important to explore the factors that have contributed to the Knicks' current predicament.

One player taking the spotlight in this discussion is superstar point guard Jalen Brunson, who recently received the Clutch Player of the Year award and is averaging an impressive 29.9 points in the postseason. However, as the series has unfolded, concerning statistics have emerged. While the Knicks are collectively down 11 points in the series, Brunson's individual plus-minus stands at minus-26. This suggests that New York has outperformed expectations during minutes when Brunson is not on the court, winning those stretches by 15 points. Although plus-minus metrics can fluctuate and might not capture the complete narrative, they raise pertinent questions regarding Brunson's impact against Indiana. Brunson is undeniably a premier player, but his tendency to dominate the ball occasionally disrupts the offensive rhythm and complicates his teammates' ability to engage in the game. Additionally, his attempts to draw fouls can stall possessions, further hampering the offensive flow. On the defensive end, Brunson's height disadvantage against a lengthy Pacers roster becomes a recognizable vulnerability.

Despite these issues, it is crucial to clarify that the Knicks would not be better served without Brunson or with reduced playing time for him. However, a shift in his playing style may be necessary to enhance the team's performance in this series. Emphasizing the importance of ball movement and trusting teammates could yield reward. Furthermore, while Brunson cannot change his physical stature, he can introduce greater variety to his offensive approach. Teammates Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby, who have not registered poor performances in this series—Bridges averaging 17.0 points and shooting 40.0 percent from three, Anunoby contributing 17.5 points—have yet to make a substantial impact in other statistical categories, such as rebounds and assists. The expectation surrounding both players stems from significant trades that positioned them as stars within the team. The Knicks notably exchanged five first-round picks, one first-round pick swap, and one second-round swap for Bridges. Moreover, Anunoby ranks among the highest-paid players in the league this season. Therefore, the collective production of 8.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 3.8 turnovers from these two forwards in the conference finals can be seen as underwhelming. Although Brunson's ball dominance wears on their effectiveness, there remains an opportunity for both players to assert themselves more decisively in the series.

The performance of Aaron Nesmith also warrants attention, particularly following an ankle injury that hindered his participation in part of Game 3. Despite concerns about his availability for Game 4, Nesmith played the entirety of the game, contributing significantly to his team's success. He finished Game 4 with the highest plus-minus rating at plus-20. In Game 2, Nesmith was instrumental from beyond the arc, hitting 2-of-3 three-point attempts and achieving a plus-12 rating. And in the series opener, his late-game scoring surge propelled him to a total of 30 points, turning the tide in that match. While Nesmith's three-point threat stands out, his on-ball defense against Brunson may have proven even more vital, creating challenging offensive opportunities for the smaller guard, despite instances where Brunson managed to score.

In assessing New York's struggles, it is also pertinent to address the depth of both teams. The Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder lead the way in the conference finals with their robust rosters, while the Knicks, like the Denver Nuggets, lack the same level of depth. The decisions made by team front offices are certainly factors, but coaches dedicate substantial time to refining rotations and developing players for playoff scenarios. Tom Thibodeau, known for leaning heavily on his starters, maintains this strategy. This season, Bridges, Josh Hart, Anunoby, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Brunson ranked first, second, ninth, 27th, and 39th, respectively, in total minutes played. Notably, Brunson also missed 17 games due to injury. This focus on veteran players helped New York secure 51 victories during the regular season, but it may have inadvertently deprived younger players of crucial development opportunities needed during the playoffs. The limited trust in players outside of this core group—including Mitchell Robinson and Miles McBride—has rendered it challenging to compete against a quick and relentless Pacers team.

A significant factor in the Knicks' challenges is the outstanding performance of Tyrese Haliburton, whose emergence as a superstar in this postseason cannot be overstated. In a remarkable display during Game 4, Haliburton recorded 32 points, 15 assists, 12 rebounds, and four steals—marking the first instance in league history that a player achieved these four statistical benchmarks in a single playoff game. Over the course of the postseason, his averages include 19.4 points, 9.8 assists, and 2.6 three-pointers per game. Haliburton's control of the game has consistently overwhelmed opponents, and he has positioned the Pacers on the precipice of the NBA Finals. While the Knicks undeniably share the blame for their current series standing, Haliburton's impact has been the most decisive factor in the team's 3-1 advantage.