Pacers' costly turnovers lead to loss against Knicks in Eastern Conference Finals

In the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals, the Indiana Pacers faced off against the New York Knicks in Game 5, where the Knicks secured a decisive 111-94 victory. This game took place on a Thursday evening, extending the Knicks' season while putting the Pacers' NBA Finals hopes on hold. Indiana entered the game with notable strength, averaging only 12.1 turnovers across the playoffs. However, in Game 5, the Pacers completely faltered, committing a staggering 19 turnovers that the Knicks capitalized on to score 13 points while turning the tide in their favor. The Pacers had previously won the first two games in the series on their home court before facing the Knicks at Madison Square Garden, a venue infamous for the pressure it can place on visiting teams. Despite a solid effort from their star player, Tyrese Haliburton, who had performed impressively throughout the playoffs, Indiana struggled to maintain its composure and ball control when it mattered most. The Knicks’ defense rose to the occasion, limiting the visitors' scoring opportunities both inside the paint and from beyond the three-point arc. High-profile attendees at the game, such as Timothy Chalamet and Spike Lee, rallied behind the Knicks, creating an electric atmosphere that further challenged the Pacers. Former Colts punter Pat McAfee attempted to galvanize the Pacers' fans during the game but drew criticism from some Hoosiers, including Indiana native John Mellencamp. Mellencamp expressed embarrassment over McAfee's remarks directed at Knicks fans, calling them a violation of the traditionally welcoming Indiana spirit known as 'Hoosier Hospitality.' With Game 5 extending their season, the Knicks are poised to push for a potential Game 7 at Madison Square Garden. Both teams are in search of their first NBA Finals appearance since the 20th century. The pivotal victory for New York not only emphasizes their defensive prowess but also highlights Indiana's struggles, as both teams have waited too long for a championship and are desperate to fulfill their long-held ambitions. Moving forward, the series remains intensely competitive, raising questions about the mental fortitude of the Pacers as they attempt to overcome this setback in the upcoming games.