Why the Pacers Will Take Game 6: Indiana’s Edge Over the Knicks in a Pivotal Playoff Clash

The Indiana Pacers have their backs against the wall—or at least that’s how it appears on paper. But a deeper dive into the series against the New York Knicks reveals a much different story. Game 6 is more than just another playoff matchup; it’s the Pacers’ chance to assert their dominance on home court and punch back in a heavyweight battle that has teetered on a knife’s edge.

New York has battled through injuries and adversity to keep this series close, but Indiana’s depth and tactical flexibility could be the difference-maker when the ball tips off in Game 6. The series has been defined by adjustments, physicality, and moments of brilliance. And when those moments count most—especially in a raucous Gainbridge Fieldhouse—the Pacers are primed to shine.

For starters, Indiana’s offensive efficiency at home has been electric. Throughout the playoffs, they’ve lit up the scoreboard at a blistering pace when playing in Indianapolis, fueled by ball movement, transition offense, and hot shooting. In Game 3 and Game 4 at home, the Pacers averaged over 120 points and completely overwhelmed New York with their pace and spacing.

Tyrese Haliburton is a major reason why. Though he’s had some quiet games in the series, Haliburton’s court vision and leadership on the floor are pivotal. When he’s orchestrating Indiana’s offense with confidence, the Knicks struggle to keep up. In Game 6, Haliburton’s ability to break down the Knicks’ defense in both half-court and transition scenarios will be crucial.

Another significant edge for Indiana lies in their bench production. T.J. McConnell has been a revelation—bringing energy, defensive tenacity, and tempo-shifting presence. His ability to frustrate opposing guards and ignite fast breaks gives the Pacers a unique spark that few teams can replicate from the second unit.

Aaron Nesmith’s defensive versatility also shouldn’t go unnoticed. He’s one of the few players on the roster capable of credibly switching onto Jalen Brunson while also contributing offensively. In a series defined by physicality and pressure, Nesmith’s ability to do the dirty work without fouling is invaluable.

Speaking of Brunson—he’s been nothing short of spectacular this postseason. But New York’s reliance on him has reached dangerous levels. With OG Anunoby out and Julius Randle already sidelined, Brunson has had to carry a disproportionate offensive burden. Indiana’s game plan should focus on wearing him down, and they’ve already started doing that with a barrage of traps and off-ball pressure.

The wear-and-tear is real. In Game 5, Brunson looked visibly fatigued during stretches, and while he still dropped 40, he needed 30+ shots to get there. If Indiana can force similar volume without efficiency, the Pacers win the math battle.

One X-factor to watch is Myles Turner. The veteran big has shown flashes of dominance on both ends—protecting the rim, stretching the floor, and running the pick-and-pop game with Haliburton. When Turner is assertive, he changes the entire complexion of Indiana’s attack, forcing Mitchell Robinson or Isaiah Hartenstein to defend in uncomfortable spots.

Coaching also plays a role. Rick Carlisle has been in these playoff trenches before. With a championship under his belt and a reputation for tactical adjustments, Carlisle’s experience could prove decisive. His Game 3 and Game 4 tweaks—putting pressure on Brunson earlier in the shot clock and emphasizing quick hits in transition—were masterstrokes.

Let’s not forget Indiana’s crowd. Gainbridge Fieldhouse has turned into a playoff fortress. The energy is palpable, and the young Pacers have fed off it beautifully. For a Knicks team that’s banged up and short on depth, dealing with a road crowd like that could prove to be the final straw.

And here’s a stat that matters: Indiana hasn’t lost a home playoff game this year. They’ve protected their house with intensity and pride. Game 6 will be no different—especially with their season on the line.

The Knicks are valiant, no doubt. But how long can they keep surviving on guts and Brunson heroics? Depth matters in a seven-game series, and the Pacers simply have more of it right now. More shooters. More creators. More legs. In Game 6, that surplus pays off.

Expect the Pacers to push the tempo early and often. They thrive in chaos—fast breaks, early offense, broken plays. If they can speed up the Knicks and avoid getting bogged down in half-court grindfests, the game swings in their favor.

And if the game is close in the fourth quarter? Advantage Indiana. The Knicks are running on fumes, and the Pacers’ youthful legs and deeper rotation give them the late-game edge. Don’t be surprised if someone like Bennedict Mathurin steps up with a big moment.

This is a team that believes in itself. From Carlisle to Haliburton to the last man on the bench, the Pacers aren’t playing just to stay alive—they’re playing to advance. That mentality, combined with tactical advantages and home-court energy, sets the stage for a Game 6 triumph.

The Knicks will fight—they always do—but Indiana is better positioned for this moment. They’ve already cracked New York’s formula, and now it’s time to execute one last time at home before turning their eyes to Game 7.

Game 6 won’t be easy. It might come down to a handful of possessions. But in the balance of offense, depth, health, and hunger, the Pacers hold the advantage.

Look for Indiana to close strong, feed off the crowd, and force the series back to Madison Square Garden for a winner-take-all Game 7.