In a dramatic opening game of the Eastern Conference Finals, the New York Knicks seemed to have secured a commanding lead against the Indiana Pacers, only to witness an unexpected turn of events. Playing in front of an astounded Madison Square Garden crowd, the Pacers orchestrated a stunning comeback from a 14-point deficit with just over two and a half minutes remaining in regulation, ultimately forcing overtime before claiming a thrilling 138-135 victory.

Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau reflected on the disappointing outcome, emphasizing the need for constant vigilance against a high-scoring team like the Pacers. 'They can score the ball. Aaron Nesmith got loose,' Thibodeau remarked, highlighting the contributions of Nesmith, who delivered a standout performance in the fourth quarter by successfully sinking six three-pointers. Tyrese Haliburton also played a pivotal role, hitting a fadeaway jumper as time expired, just inside the three-point line, to level the score and propel the game into overtime. The Pacers showcased their scoring prowess by amassing 20 points within the final 2 minutes and 39 seconds of regulation.

Once in overtime, Andrew Nembhard took the spotlight, leading Indiana with seven points and showcasing the team's ability to perform under pressure. The Pacers seemed to have an answer for every challenge posed by the Knicks, making crucial plays at key moments. While the Knicks' loss could be characterized as a missed opportunity, the Pacers' tenacity and resilience were undeniable. As head coach Rick Carlisle noted, the ability to erase significant deficits is akin to building a muscle through exercise. With this game, the Pacers not only secured a crucial victory but also dealt a morale blow to the Knicks, who now face the challenge of bouncing back in this highly competitive series.