Knicks Rally to Force Game 6: Dominant Defense and Offensive Output Lead to Thrilling Victory
In a tense and emotional visiting locker room at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the New York Knicks were preparing for their next challenge in the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals. After a thrilling 111-94 victory in Game 5, the Knicks had cut the Indiana Pacers' series lead to 3-2, and now they were focused on closing out the series in Game 6 on Saturday.
The Knicks' superstar duo of Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns had been instrumental in their comeback, with Brunson scoring 32 points on 12-for-18 shooting and Towns contributing 24 points, 13 rebounds, and 3 assists. "We're going back home," said Josh Hart, who chipped in 12 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals in 34 minutes as he continued to come off the bench. "I've never known this team to quit. That's not the character of the guys we have in the locker room. Obviously, our backs are against the wall, but we're competitors, and we're going to bring it until the series is over."
The Knicks' defense had also been a key factor in their victory, holding the Pacers to just 40.5% shooting from the field and 96.9 points-per-100 in Game 5. It was the first time the Pacers had failed to score at least one point per possession in the 2025 NBA playoffs, and just the eighth time in 97 combined regular- and postseason contests.
Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau praised Towns for his aggressive play, saying "I think Jalen, as well." Brunson had set the tone early and never let up, scoring 32 points to keep the Knicks' season alive. He also played with energy, physicality, and tenacity on defense, forcing the Pacers to make plays over the top of him or through him.
"That's our guy," said Hart. "We know he's gonna bring it offensively, but I felt like he dug in defensively and had great intensity... He answered the call, he defended well, he defended without fouling, which is the most important part. And we need that from him again next game."
The Knicks' defense had been a collective effort, with Mikal Bridges turning in his best and most committed defensive performance of the series, and other Knicks picking up the assignment and staying physical and disciplined to limit Haliburton's easy touches and opportunities to drive into open space. "Sometimes, it was probably a combination of him missing some shots he normally makes," said Thibodeau after the game. "But I thought our guys were tied together, trying to make him work for everything. That’s what you have to do. We have to fight to win every possession."
The Knicks still have a tall task ahead of them in Game 6 on Saturday in Indianapolis, but they are not ready to give up yet. They have staved off elimination once, and with Hart's belief in their character and determination, they will continue to fight until the end.
