New York Knicks Overpower Indiana Pacers To Close Out Season Series, 136-110

Kimberly McClary
New York Knicks guard Jose Alvarado (5) gestures after scoring

The New York Knicks faced off against the Indiana Pacers last night in Madison Square Garden for their last matchup of the season. With the Pacers dead last in the Eastern Conference, and the Knicks a game and a half behind the Boston Celtics, this matchup was only beneficial for one opponent.

Even though both teams were without their star players, from looking at the final score, you wouldn’t know it, as both teams scored over 100 points. This game had everything you would expect between two inter-conference rivals like the Knicks and the Pacers.

Knicks Still Ran Without Their Engine

Knicks star Point Guard Jalen Brunson sat out last night’s matchup due to a cervical neck strain, but his team did not miss a beat. Jose Alvarado started in his place for his first time as a Knick, and finished the game with 16 points, 10 assists, 2 rebounds, and 2 steals in 27 minutes of play. 

Josh Hart came through and stole the show, with 12-of-13 shooting, going 5-of-5 from beyond the arc in only 26 minutes of play, as he sat for the entire fourth quarter. Hart scored 33 points, a season-high, and added 7 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 steals. OG Anunoby was just as hot, finishing the game with 26 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, and a steal. 

Pacers Gave Their All

Although the Pacers were without their stars in guard Tyrese Haliburton, Forward Pascal Siakam, and Guard Andrew Nembhard, they gave their all last night. They stayed on the Knicks’ heels for the majority of the first half, even leading for a brief moment.

Jarace Walker came away with the most points for the Pacers with 16, grabbing 5 rebounds and dishing out 5 assists. Obi Toppin was right behind him with 15 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists, while Aaron Nesmith added 14 points. Ivica Zubac had a quiet night with only 11 points and 7 rebounds.

The Better Team Came Away With the Win

Every player who started for the Knicks last night ended the game with at least 1 steal. The old saying is “offense sells tickets, but defense wins games.” The Knicks used both offense and defense to win this game. The Knicks dominated the second and third quarters, turning what could have been a close game into a blowout. They went on a 21-7 run in the second quarter and a 19-8 spurt in the third, and never looked back.

FAQ Section

Q: What was the final score?  

A: 136-110

Q: Who was the MVP of the game?  

A: Josh Hart

Q: What was the turning point? 

A:  The Knicks built a 72-64 halftime lead and opened the third quarter with a 19-8 run, extending the lead to 94-77.

What’s Next For Each Team?  

The Knicks (45-25) are going on a three-game homestand where they will take on the Brooklyn Nets, the Washington Wizards, and the New Orleans Pelicans. With a four-game winning streak, the Knicks are currently battling for the 2nd seed in the Atlantic Division. They will play the Nets next on Friday.

The Pacers (15-54) are in a difficult stretch, having now lost 14 consecutive games. They have officially been eliminated from playoff contention, so Head Coach Rick Carlie will look to focus on player development and the upcoming draft. They face the Portland Trailblazers tonight.