Pacers Rally to Overtime Victory Against Knicks in Game 1 of Eastern Conference Finals

The Indiana Pacers showcased their resilience once again, continuing their narrative as comeback contenders throughout the playoffs. In Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals at Madison Square Garden, the Pacers faced a daunting 116-102 deficit with fewer than four minutes left in regulation but managed to orchestrate a remarkable 23-9 run to force overtime, eventually defeating the New York Knicks 138-135.

In a dramatic twist, Tyrese Haliburton appeared to secure the victory with a last-second shot from beyond the arc, only for it to be ruled that his toe was on the line. Nonetheless, the Pacers carried their momentum into the extra period, capitalizing on critical late baskets from Obi Toppin and Andrew Nembhard. The Knicks had opportunities to force double overtime with attempts from Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns falling short, allowing the Pacers to pull off this stunning victory.

With this win, the Pacers have established themselves as the favorites to win the series. Haliburton contributed significantly to the victory, finishing with 31 points and 11 assists, and would not have been in a position to make his pivotal shot without the support of Aaron Nesmith, who delivered an impressive performance with 30 points, including an exceptional 8-of-9 from three-point range, six of which were made during the final five minutes of regulation. This clutch shooting not only shifted the dynamics of the game but also aligned with Indiana's historical trend of comebacks, having previously triumphed over the Milwaukee Bucks and the Cleveland Cavaliers in similar fashion. Despite the loss, the Knicks' performances from Brunson, who tallied 43 points, and Towns, who notched 35 points and 12 rebounds, were significant, but ultimately, the late surge by Indiana proved decisive.