Indiana Pacers vs New York Knicks Picks and Predictions May 17th 2024

Alright, so check it out: the Knicks are just one win away from hitting the Eastern Conference finals

For the first time since way back in 2000. They’re itching to break that dry spell when they roll up to Indy to take on the Pacers for Game 6 on Friday night.

The Knicks are sitting pretty with a 3-2 lead in the series, feeling good after smashing the Pacers 121-91 in Game 5 at their home turf. But hey, they’re not popping champagne just yet. Coach Tom Thibodeau’s like, “Hold up, we need one more dub. Can’t let the excitement distract us from the grind. In this league, feeling yourself too much can lead to a smackdown. We gotta stay sharp.”

Jalen Brunson was on fire in Game 5

Dropping 44 points despite nursing a foot injury. Dude’s been putting up big numbers, averaging 32 points a game in this series. But he’s keeping it real, saying, “As a squad, we’re keeping the same mindset, focused on the prize. No matter what curveballs come our way, we’re gonna handle it.”

But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows for the Knicks. OG Anunoby’s been out with a busted hamstring since Game 2, testing their bench depth.

On the flip side, the Pacers ain’t backing down.

Coach Rick Carlisle’s expecting his squad to come out swinging, especially with their backs against the wall. They got schooled in Game 5, getting outrebounded and outscored in the paint big time. Carlisle’s like, “If we can’t stop them from scoring and grab boards, it’s gonna be ugly. Gotta tighten up.”

Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton’s calling for more cohesion and chill vibes, saying, “When things get rough, we gotta stick together. We were all over the place in Game 5, and that starts with me as the leader.”

Now, the Pacers have been kings of their court, undefeated at home in the playoffs. But now, they gotta win two in a row to keep the dream alive.

Carlisle’s preaching urgency, knowing it’s do-or-die time.

“When your season’s on the line, you better believe we’re bringing the heat.”

And while the Knicks could bank on a Game 7 cushion at home, they ain’t taking that chance. Thibodeau’s like, “Nah, forget the noise. We gotta focus on the W in front of us. Put in the work, lock in, and don’t slip.”

So, here we go—Game 6’s about to pop off. Knicks wanna wrap it up, Pacers aiming to keep the party going. It’s gonna be lit.