New York Knicks - Indiana Pacers predictions and free betting tips [06/05/2024]

The New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers are set to square off tomorrow morning in the NBA Eastern Conference semi-finals.

New York Knicks

The New York Knicks move into the second round of the Eastern Conference with belief after overcoming the Philadelphia 76ers 4-2 in the series. Jalen Branson, who's heading the NBA playoff scoring charts, has been instrumental averaging 35.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game. In the last four games of the series, he scored 39, 47, 40, and 41 points, becoming the star attraction of New York. Other players also put in eye-catching performances. Josh Hart added 16.8 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game while OG Anunoby chipped in with 15.0 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. The team showed a strong defence which was their signature throughout the season, conceding an average of just 108.2 points per game.

The Knicks, who finished second in the NBA regular season, put up a strong display in defence and attack, especially in the first round. They've successfully limited their opposition in paint defence, placing 6th best in this area. However, they've also faced challenges defending beyond the arc, which could be an issue against the Pacers.

The New York roster is hampered by the loss of key players due to injury. Julius Randle and Bojan Bogdanovic are out, limiting the team's rotation essentially to 7 players. Such a line-up might struggle to keep up the pace against speedier teams like Pacers, who have the best offensive rebounding percentage in the league. Despite injuries, the New York Knicks keep fighting and gear up for the upcoming postseason games, relying on their defence and Branson's ability to lead the attack.

Indiana Pacers

Indiana Pacers approach their next fixtures with plenty of confidence after a successful series against the Bucks, winning 4-2 against a Giannis-less outfit. Pascal Siakam leads the team averaging 22.3 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game while Myles Turner adds 19.2 points and 7.2 rebounds. Tyrese Haliburton also plays a significant role with 16.0 points, 5.8 rebounds and 9.3 assists per game. The Pacers have been sharp on attack, scoring an average of 113.0 points per game in the playoff and converting 47.9% of their field goals. In the regular season, the team posted an even higher average of 123.3 points per game, which helped them overcome New York Knicks 2-1 in the season series.
The Pacers' strength lies in their offence, reflected in their top-ranking for points scored and second-ranking offensive rating in the regular season. They also excel in shooting efficiency, placing third in the league for shooting percentage and sixth for the least turnovers. However, their defensive record poses questions, as they rank 27th in the league for points conceded in the regular season, casting doubt on their ability to sustain a lead in high-stakes matches. Obi Toppin and TJ McConnell made significant contributions off the bench in their last game against Milwaukee, scoring 21 and 20 points respectively, underscoring the depth of the team roster and their ability to step up in critical moments.

The Pacers face the challenge of the subsequent playoff series, where they will face formidable opponents and will attempt to assert their offensive superiority while overcoming defensive shortcomings.

Prediction for the New York Knicks - Indiana Pacers match

Indiana lacks experience, much like many of the Knicks players, but in terms of structure and team defense in the playoffs, New York are two heads higher and should easily bag the first victory.