Knicks vs. Pacers: 5 Key Takeaways as Pascal Siakam Fuels Indiana’s 2-0 Series Advantage!

NEW YORK — Sometimes, a win speaks volumes without any drama. The Indiana Pacers took control in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals with a 114-109 victory over the New York Knicks, leading the series 2-0. Pascal Siakam was unstoppable, scoring 39 points and shooting 15-for-23. The Knicks’ Jalen Brunson had a strong game too, with 36 points and 11 assists, but couldn’t tie it in the final moments.

The Pacers are on a roll. They’ve now won six straight playoff games on the road, while the Knicks have struggled at home, going 3-5 at Madison Square Garden.

As the series shifts to Indiana for Game 3, let’s dive into several key takeaways from the action so far.

1. Pacers’ Offensive Power

Although the Knicks had a strong offensive season, the Pacers have ramped up their game in the playoffs. They lead the postseason in both passes and distance traveled per possession. With a breathtaking 126.6 points scored per 100 possessions, Indiana’s offense is proving harder to defend. In crucial moments, they’ve displayed amazing efficiency, scoring 42 points in just 27 possessions during Game 2.

This swift and fluid playstyle makes it tricky for opponents. A constant rotation and ball movement often leave defenders scrambling, as many of Indiana’s scores come from solid teamwork rather than individual star power.

2. Transition Game Dominance

One of the Pacers’ strongest assets has been their transition game. They’ve outscored the Knicks 51-26 on fast breaks across the two games. While the half-court offense has been effective for both teams, it’s the Pacers who excel when running off the pace. In clutch moments, as they scored their final points, transition buckets became vital to their success.

On the flip side, the Knicks need to tighten their transition defense to have a fighting chance in the upcoming games. Quick turnovers need to be minimized, as they lead to easy baskets for Indiana.

3. Siakam’s Standout Performance

Pascal Siakam’s impressive playoff experience from 2019 is shining through. He not only scored heavily in transition but also showed versatility in half-court plays. His performance is a reminder of the importance of players who have been tested under playoff pressure. Coach Rick Carlisle praised Siakam’s ability to score amidst tough defensive matchups, highlighting his value to the team’s success.

This playoff run has seen several players excel, showing that the Pacers have multiple offensive weapons ready to contribute as needed.

4. Targeting Brunson

Throughout the series, the Pacers have cleverly targeted Jalen Brunson, a key player for the Knicks. When they drew him into pick-and-roll situations, they often found open shots or easier scoring opportunities. By focusing on Brunson, the Pacers managed to shift the scales in their favor, producing strong looks at the basket.

With Brunson’s increased attention on defense, Indiana is adapting their strategy to exploit these matchups, showing the tactical approach that could define the series.

5. Bench Dynamics

The Pacers tend to utilize their bench more than the Knicks, but both teams need consistent contributions from their reserves. Coach Carlisle made changes after Game 1, replacing underperforming players and seeing improved results. The bench showed promise during crucial periods of the game, balancing the scoring when starters rested.

Both teams will need every player to step up if they want to advance. Each game is an opportunity to see new players emerge, and it could be the difference-maker as the series unfolds.

As these teams gear up for Game 3, fans eagerly await how strategies will shift and which players will rise to the occasion. The energy of the playoffs is palpable, and every moment counts.

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Pacers-Knicks Game 3