Knicks Face Uphill Battle After Disappointing Start Against Pacers

The Indiana Pacers delivered a stunning performance in Game 1, mounting a miraculous comeback that sent a clear message to the New York Knicks. After suffering a defeat in Game 2, losing 114-109, the Knicks find themselves in a challenging position as they prepare to head on the road. Historically, no team in NBA history has overcome the loss of the first two games of a conference finals played at home to win the series, but the Knicks will look to defy the odds. To secure four victories in the next five games, significant improvements are essential.

While the Knicks have managed to slow the Pacers' pace compared to their regular-season performance, they need to achieve a more deliberate tempo. Indiana excels when it is able to push the ball in transition, frequently moving it up the floor rather than relying on dribbling. This strategy has proven effective for the Pacers in both Games 1 and 2. The Knicks may find it beneficial to rethink their focus on offensive rebounding, particularly from Mitchell Robinson, in favor of a more urgent transition defense. Ensuring swift returns on defense following both made and missed shots is crucial, as is adopting a more methodical approach to offense that aims to exhaust the Pacers' energy reserves. Longer possessions may force the opposing defense to work harder, potentially leading to fatigue on the other end of the court.

The Knicks struggled with assists in both games, registering only 18 assists in Game 2, with more than half of their baskets being unassisted. Jalen Brunson’s extensive shot attempts — amounting to 52 over the first two contests — suggest that the Knicks must find a way to unleash their offensive capabilities without becoming predictable. The Pacers possess a diverse array of scoring threats, meaning that all five Knicks defenders must remain vigilant at all times. Isolations and pick-and-rolls have the potential to make the Knicks' offense predictable, which can allow defenders to gain needed rest. While altering a team's fundamental approach in the midst of a series is challenging, the Knicks must strive to increase their assist totals and capitalize on shot variety, particularly as they averaged 27.5 assists during the regular season. Such changes could provide them with an edge they need to navigate the challenge posed by the Pacers.

Currently, the Knicks trail by six in three-point scoring for the series. This differential is not insurmountable, yet it is greater than the total point spread. The Knicks' perimeter defenders displayed a lack of aggressiveness late in Game 1, particularly when Aaron Nesmith found success beyond the arc. To mitigate the Pacers' threats, the Knicks need to improve their defensive rotations and even consider switching screens more frequently on the perimeter while being mindful of Myles Turner's capabilities in the post. Adapting quicker to the Pacers' varied shooting threats could help New York regain control. Additionally, the potential impact of Pascal Siakam looms large, as he stands out as a player most likely to deliver a significant scoring performance after averaging a team-high 20.2 points during the regular season and exploding for 39 points in Game 2. While it is difficult to disrupt a player who is in a scoring rhythm, the Knicks may find it prudent to occasionally implement additional defensive strategies against Siakam. Transitioning between zone and man defenses could introduce an element of unpredictability, even if the risks associated with executing a zone defense against a high-quality shooting team like the Pacers are evident.

As the series progresses, the potential for fatigue among Knicks players also factors into the equation. Through two games, the Pacers hold a significant advantage in bench scoring, leading 52-28. Players like OG Anunoby and Jalen Brunson have logged heavy minutes that approach 80, while Mikal Bridges has eclipsed 90 minutes. As the pace of play increases, maintaining stamina will be crucial for New York. While immediate depth changes may not be feasible, contributions from players such as Miles McBride or Cameron Payne, even if limited to one or two three-point shots, could alleviate the burden on regular starters. In a series where margins are slim, unexpected contributions can prove pivotal in determining the outcome.