NBA Picks: Pacers vs Knicks Game 2 – Best Bets & Player Props (May 23, 2025)

Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals was an instant classic, with the Indiana Pacers outlasting the New York Knicks 138-135 in overtime at Madison Square Garden. Now down 0-1 in the series, the Knicks look to bounce back in Game 2 on Friday, May 23, with tip-off at 5:00 PM CT on TNT/Max.

 

Spread: Knicks -5.5
Total: 225.5
Moneyline: Knicks -255, Pacers +210

🏀 Game Preview

Game 1 was a showcase of elite shot-making and late-game composure. Tyrese Haliburton played the closer role to perfection, while Jalen Brunson dropped 37 points in a losing effort. The Pacers’ fast-paced offense continues to be a problem for slower, more physical teams like the Knicks. If New York is going to respond, they’ll need better rim protection and more transition discipline.

🔥 Best Bet: Over 225.5 Total Points (-110)

These teams combined for 273 points in Game 1. Even with some expected shooting regression, both offenses are humming. Indiana leads all playoff teams in pace and assists, while the Knicks remain efficient at home, especially behind Brunson and Towns. Until either defense makes major adjustments, this series leans high-scoring.

Kingpin AI Model Projection: Knicks 119, Pacers 116

🎯 Top Player Prop Bets

1. Jalen Brunson Over 29.5 Points

Brunson scored 37 in Game 1 and has averaged 32.5 PPG over his last six games. With no clear answer for him in Indiana’s backcourt and New York facing a must-win, expect heavy usage and plenty of shots from the Knicks' star guard.

2. Tyrese Haliburton Over 9.5 Assists

Haliburton dished out 13 assists in Game 1 and is averaging 9.2 APG this season. His ability to orchestrate late-clock offense and find shooters like Hield and Siakam makes this prop very attractive — especially in a projected close game.

3. Pascal Siakam Over 19.5 Points

Siakam is quietly one of Indiana’s most consistent half-court scorers and had 22 points on 14 shots in Game 1. His versatility will again be needed to break through the Knicks’ defense, especially if they tighten the perimeter coverage on Haliburton.

📈 Key Stats & Trends

• Indiana: 8-2 last 10 games, averaging 124.6 PPG during that stretch
• New York: 27-14 at home this season, 7-3 in last 10 at MSG
• Overs: The over has hit in 5 of New York’s last 7 games

 

Prediction

Game 2 should be another high-paced, offensive affair. While New York likely makes defensive adjustments, Indiana’s ball movement and pace will continue to create high-quality looks. The Knicks should even the series behind another big night from Brunson, but don’t expect a blowout.

Final Score: Knicks 119, Pacers 116

Best Bet: Over 225.5
Top Props: Brunson Over 29.5 pts, Haliburton Over 9.5 ast, Siakam Over 19.5 pts