Wed May 28 02:00:00 UTC 2025: **Pacers’ Depth Overwhelms Knicks’ Shorter Rotation as They Take 2-0 Series Lead**

**INDIANAPOLIS, IN** – The Indiana Pacers are showcasing their depth as they seized a commanding 2-0 series lead over the New York Knicks Friday night with a 114-109 victory. While Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau continues to rely heavily on a tight rotation, Pacers coach Rick Carlisle has found success utilizing his entire roster.

In Game 2, Carlisle made a surprising yet impactful decision to insert seldom-used reserve center Tony Bradley into the lineup. Bradley, who had only played sparingly in previous playoff games, provided crucial minutes to combat the Knicks’ Mitchell Robinson on the boards. Despite only playing eight minutes, Bradley contributed valuable rebounds and a positive plus-1 rating, proving to be a key factor in the Pacers’ win.

“Tony Bradley hasn’t played in the series, but he’s one of our better rebounders,” Carlisle stated after the game. “We elected to go with him to spell Myles [Turner] a little bit… We’re a team that needs everybody. That’s how we’ve got to play.”

This strategic move stands in stark contrast to Thibodeau’s approach, who has largely stuck to his starters and a limited bench. Veteran players like Precious Achiuwa and P.J. Tucker have yet to see any playing time in the series. Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton was quick to praise Bradley’s contributions: “Shoutout to Tony Bradley. Tony Bradley was huge…It’s just so special to see what our group is doing.”

Despite the Knicks holding a rebounding advantage in the series, the Pacers’ ability to utilize their entire roster and find unexpected contributions from players like Bradley has been a major difference-maker.

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