Indiana struggled to be competitive with the Knicks in Game 5 and now face what feels like a must-win game on Saturday night.
Only 13 teams have ever pulled off a 3-1 comeback, but with it now 3-2, a win on Saturday for the Knicks makes this series dead even.
MORE: How rare is a 3-1 comeback in the NBA? Breaking down the Knicks’ chance
Why does Indiana have to win Game 5?
The Pacers seemed to be in control of the series, but an elimination game at Madison Square Garden is never going to be an easy task.
The Knicks understand the opportunity they have in front of them and don’t want to give up even if it takes winning three games in a row.
They do have the benefit of playing Game 7 at home should they get to that point, which is why what felt like a big lead in the series for Indiana can shrink very quickly.
MORE: Bill Simmons believes Knicks missed one chance to win a championship this year
New York is just 4-5 at home this postseason after tonight’s win.
A replicated performance from Game 2 or Game 4 will be needed by Indiana to get to the NBA Finals on Saturday.
The offense looked all out of sorts in Game 5 and their defense let the Knicks get to the basket way too easily.
MORE: Tyrese Haliburton’s historic no turnover Game 4 compared to elite NFL quarterback games
They were giving up weak fouls on and-ones that didn’t help either.
Action resumes this Saturday for Game 6, as Indiana looks to clinch their first Eastern Conference title since 2000.
MORE: Pacers/Thunder NBA Finals would be the first under this difficult financial rule
