In a shocking turn of events, the New York Knicks faced a heartbreaking loss to the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals on May 21, 2025. The Knicks, who were leading by 17 points in the fourth quarter, squandered their advantage and ultimately fell 138-135 in overtime at Madison Square Garden.
The game began with the Pacers establishing an early lead, scoring on their first eight possessions. However, the Knicks fought back, with standout performances from Jalen Brunson, who scored 43 points, and Karl-Anthony Towns, who added 35. The Knicks managed to take control and went into halftime with a seven-point lead, despite allowing the Pacers to shoot over 51% from the field.
As the fourth quarter unfolded, the Knicks appeared to be in a comfortable position, holding a 14-point lead with just under three minutes left. But the Pacers mounted a furious comeback, with Tyrese Haliburton leading the charge. He scored a crucial basket to tie the game at the buzzer, sending it into overtime after a controversial shot that was initially thought to be a three-pointer but was ruled a two.
In the extra period, the Knicks started strong, scoring the first four points. However, they were outscored 13-6 in the final minutes, unable to capitalize on their early momentum. The Pacers’ Andrew Nembhard hit a key three-pointer that cut the Knicks’ lead to one, shifting the momentum in favor of Indiana.
The Knicks’ missed opportunities were glaring, with Towns and OG Anunoby both missing important free throws in the final seconds. The Pacers celebrated their victory as Haliburton’s clutch performance sealed the game, marking a significant playoff moment for Indiana.
This loss puts the Knicks in a challenging position as they trail in the postseason series for the first time this spring. Game 2 is set for Friday night, where the Knicks will look to bounce back and regain their footing in the series. The stakes are high, and both teams are eager to secure a crucial win.