Wed May 28 02:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Knicks Claw Back Against Pacers in Game 3, Series at 2-1
**INDIANAPOLIS** – The New York Knicks stole a crucial Game 3 victory on the road against the Indiana Pacers Sunday night, clawing back from a 20-point deficit to win 106-100 and cut Indiana’s series lead to 2-1.
After dominating the first half with a fast-paced offense and strong shooting, the Pacers inexplicably slowed down, allowing the Knicks to capitalize. Indiana abandoned their usual aggressive style, settling for individual matchups and failing to maintain the tempo that fueled their early success.
“We didn’t play fast enough,” Pacers center Myles Turner admitted. “We built our brand and made our way getting up and down and being a fast-paced team, and we didn’t execute that way.”
The Knicks, known for their resilience, exploited Indiana’s lapse. Karl-Anthony Towns exploded for 20 of his 24 points in the fourth quarter. Josh Hart, coming off the bench, provided crucial energy and hustle. Even foul trouble for Jalen Brunson ended up working in the Knicks’ favour.
While New York’s efforts were significant, the Pacers’ own errors proved costly. Turnovers and poor execution in crucial moments, particularly at the end of quarters, allowed the Knicks to gain momentum.
Pacers coach Rick Carlisle emphasized the need for better aggression, tempo, defense, and rebounding going forward. Guard T.J. McConnell pointed to complacency as a factor in the team’s collapse.
Adding to Indiana’s woes, key contributor Aaron Nesmith suffered an ankle sprain late in the game, leaving his status for Game 4 in question.
The Pacers will need to rediscover their identity and regain their aggressive approach to avoid falling into a 2-2 tie in the series. Game 4 is scheduled for Tuesday night in Indianapolis.
First Piper 