The NBA playoffs action on Tuesday will see the Knicks hosting the Pacers in Game 1 at MSG. Meanwhile, the T-Wolves and Anthony Edwards look to go up 2-0 against the defending champs.<\/p>\n
The Pacers were on fire in the 4-2 series win over the Bucks, with every player stepping up to contribute and propel Indiana into the second round. Pascal Siakam has been leading the charge, averaging an impressive 22.3 points and 8.8 rebounds while shooting 54% from the field. Expect him to remain a key offensive weapon for the Pacers, likely facing off against former teammate OG Anunoby. Myles Turner has also been a force to be reckoned with, averaging 19.2 points and 7.2 rebounds per game while shooting efficiently from both inside and beyond the arc. His matchup against Isaiah Hartenstein promises to be a tough battle. Tyrese Haliburton continues to shine as the face of the franchise, showcasing his playmaking skills with 16 points and 9.3 assists per game. All eyes will be on his matchup with Jalen Brunson. Meanwhile, Andrew Nembhard provides another scoring option for the Pacers, shooting lights out with 13.8 points per game against the Bucks. Obi Toppin has been a reliable backup forward\/centre, while Aaron Nesmith adds intrigue with his scoring prowess. If the Pacers can maintain their offensive momentum and find ways to contain Brunson and the Knicks, they stand a good chance of covering the spread and advancing further in the playoffs.<\/p>\n
Jalen Brunson is gearing up for a massive showdown with the Pacers as he aims to lead the Knicks to their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance in over two years. Coming off a stellar performance averaging an impressive 35.5 points per game against the 76ers, Brunson is poised to continue his scoring spree in what promises to be an epic matchup against Haliburton. Hart, despite his solid contributions averaging 16.8 points and 12.3 rebounds per game, will need to elevate his shooting game and contain Nesmith effectively. Anunoby’s consistent performance, averaging 15 points per game, has been instrumental in the Knicks’ success, particularly in the absence of Julius Randle. His anticipated clash with Siakam adds an extra layer of intrigue given their shared history as teammates. DiVincenzo and McBride provide valuable options off the bench, although their shooting percentages will need improvement to bolster the Knicks’ offence. With a focus on dominating the boards and Brunson’s continued dominance, the Knicks have a solid chance of covering the spread and securing a victory.<\/p>\n
I expect Game 1 to be a high scoring affair with the likes of Brunson and Haliburton in good form. The Over is now 15-3 in the Knicks last 18 and also 7-1 when they’re at home. Also, the Over has saluted in 9 of the last 11 games involving the Pacers.<\/p>\n