NBA Picks: Knicks vs Pacers Game 3 – Best Bets & Player Props (May 25, 2025)

The Indiana Pacers return home with a commanding 2-0 series lead after two tightly contested wins at Madison Square Garden. Game 3 tips off on Sunday, May 25 at 5:00 PM CT at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, airing live on TNT/Max.

 

Spread: Pacers -2.5
Total: 223.5
Moneyline: Pacers -135, Knicks +115

 

🏀 Game Preview

The Knicks are reeling after dropping back-to-back heartbreakers at home, including an overtime thriller in Game 1 and a late collapse in Game 2. Jalen Brunson has carried the load, but New York needs stronger support from their role players. Meanwhile, Tyrese Haliburton continues to orchestrate the Pacers’ high-powered offense with precision, while Pascal Siakam’s versatility has been a major problem for the Knicks' defense. Returning to Indiana, the Pacers are in prime position to put the series out of reach.

🔥 Best Bet: Pacers -2.5 (-105)

Indiana has simply been the better team so far. Their ball movement, pace, and depth have overwhelmed the Knicks in crunch time. The Pacers are 29-11 at home this season, and the crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse will be electric. With the Knicks showing signs of fatigue and over-reliance on Brunson, expect the Pacers to take full advantage and cover this short number.

Kingpin AI Model Projection: Pacers 114, Knicks 108

🎯 Top Player Prop Bets

1. Jalen Brunson Over 29.5 Points

Brunson has been sensational, averaging 33.0 PPG over his last 7 games. He’s had no fewer than 29 points in either game this series. With the Knicks’ season on the line, expect him to take 25+ shots again and attack the Pacers’ backcourt relentlessly.

2. Tyrese Haliburton Over 9.5 Assists

Haliburton has been masterful setting the table for Indiana’s shooters. He’s averaging 10.5 assists over his last 4 games, and with the Knicks’ defense scrambling in transition, Haliburton should continue to rack up dimes with ease.

3. Pascal Siakam Over 19.5 Points

Siakam has been quietly dominant, exploiting mismatches all series. He had 22 in Game 1 and 20 in Game 2 while shooting efficiently. The Knicks lack a true defensive answer for him, especially when he plays the 5 in small-ball sets.

📈 Key Stats & Trends

• Pacers: 8-2 last 10 games, 29-11 home record
• Knicks: 3-5 on the road in the playoffs
• ATS: Pacers are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 playoff games

 

Prediction

The Knicks have been valiant but ultimately overmatched so far. Game 3 may be their last real shot at turning this series around, but Indiana’s momentum and home-court energy are tough to ignore. Unless the Knicks get unexpected contributions from their supporting cast, the Pacers should take control late and move one win from the NBA Finals.

Final Score: Pacers 114, Knicks 108

Best Bet: Pacers -2.5
Top Props: Brunson Over 29.5 pts, Haliburton Over 9.5 ast, Siakam Over 19.5 pts