Knicks vs Pacers – A Classic NBA Rivalry Reignited in the 2025 Playoffs

🏀 Knicks vs Pacers – A Rivalry That Never Dies

The Knicks-Pacers rivalry has lasted decades, from the classic Reggie Miller choke gesture in the 1990s to the intense 2025 NBA matchup.  Every generation of fans has witnessed this heated battle between New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers. This playoff season, the fire is back — with stars like Jalen Brunson, Tyrese Haliburton, Aaron Nesmith, and Pascal Siakam taking center stage.

🎯 Game 1: Pacers stun Knicks at Madison Square Garden

The Knicks game started strong, with the crowd at Madison Square Garden electrifying the atmosphere. Jalen Brunson delivered an incredible 43 points, showcasing his leadership. However, the surprise came late in the game, when the Pacers rallied with a furious comeback.

Aaron Nesmith, a crucial Pacers player, was on fire from deep, ending with 30 points and hitting 8 of 9 from beyond the arc.

 His performance shook the confidence of the Knicks, who were leading by 17 points early in the fourth quarter.

💪 Haliburton’s “Choke” Gesture – A Historic Throwback

With just seconds remaining, Tyrese Haliburton sank a clutch shot to tie the game, then did the classic choking motion, an homage to Reggie Miller's famed moment at the same venue decades ago. The crowd erupted, and social media exploded with "Haliburton choke" and "Reggie Miller choke" trending instantly.

The Haliburton vs Knicks moment wasn't just a highlight — it was a statement.

📊 Player Stats – Knicks versus Pacers Match Player Stats

Here’s a breakdown of key Pacers vs Knicks match player stats:

• Jalen Brunson (Knicks): 43 points, 6 assists

• Karl-Anthony Towns (Knicks): 35 points, 12 rebounds

• Aaron Nesmith (Pacers): 30 points, 8/9 from the 3 point line.

• Tyrese Haliburton (Pacers): 31 points, 11 assists

• Andrew Nembhard (Pacers): Solid defensive plays and 9 points

The Knicks score at the end of regulation showed promise, but they couldn’t hold it in overtime. The Pacers score sealed the deal: 138-135 (OT).

🏆 Knicks Game Plan: What Needs to Change?

Despite the incredible effort from Brunson Knicks, the team struggled with defensive lapses late in the game.Tom Thibodeau, the Knicks' head coach, highlighted the importance of shutting down shooters like Nesmith Pacers and controlling Haliburton Pacers in transition.

The Knicks game today showed promise, but inconsistency hurt them. The Knicks choke late in games has been a recurring theme in this series, something the coaching staff must address ahead of Knicks vs Pacers Game 2.

📺 Where to Watch Pacers vs Knicks Live?

For fans wondering where to watch Knicks vs Pacers or how to watch the Knicks game tonight, the options are simple:

• TV Channels: TNT, truTV

• Online Streaming: NBA League Pass, Hulu Live, Sling, or cable login

Whether you’re searching "what channel is the Knicks game on tonight" or "Knicks game live," these platforms cover it all.

🔮 Pacers vs Knicks Prediction

With Pacers vs Knicks Game 2 approaching, experts are divided. The Pacers games have shown resilience, but the Knicks have the depth and experience to bounce back.

Knicks vs Pacers prediction: Expect a gritty fight. If the Knicks can avoid another choke in the fourth quarter, they can even the series. However, if Haliburton, Siakam, and Nesmith continue their momentum, the Pacers may take a 2-0 lead.

📅 NBA Finals Schedule and Beyond

Fans are already speculating if either the Knicks or Pacers can make it to the NBA Finals. The complete NBA Finals schedule will depend on how this series concludes. With fierce competition in the East, every game counts.