Knicks vs. Pacers Game 3 Preview & Prediction: May 25, 2025
The Knicks are going to Indiana at 0–2, and things are starting to look bad for NY. Jalen Brunson has been doing everything that he can possibly do—he dropped 36 in Game 2—but it hasn’t been anything near enough to slow down the Pacers. Indiana’s looking good after Pascal Siakam got 39, and Tyrese Haliburton continues to run the offense, even if his shot hasn’t been landing in the basket.
Game 3 is make-or-break. If the Knicks don’t get a win soon, this series might be curtains for them.
Game Details
- Matchup: New York Knicks @ Indiana Pacers
- Series Status: IND lead 2-0
- Date & Time: Sunday, May 25, at 8:00 pm ET
- Location: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN
- Broadcast: TNT, truTV, and MAX
Prediction Breakdown
42.7%
57.3%
According to GamblingSite.com
Betting Odds & Lines
If you’re betting on Game 3, look below for the latest odds on DraftKings Sportsbook:
| Team | Spread | Moneyline | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
Knicks | +2 (-108) | +114 | Over 223 (-110) |
Pacers | -2 (-112) | -135 | Under 223 (-110) |
Team Insights
In the two games so far, Indiana has been the more composed team when it counts, and the Knicks are still looking for help around Brunson. Here’s how both sides have performed going into Game 3:
New York Knicks
- Recent Performance: New York has allowed 120+ points in both games and hasn’t found a way to slow down Indiana’s half-court sets.
- Key Players: Jalen Brunson is doing all that he can, and he’s averaging over 35 points through two games, but he’s had to do it pretty much on his own.
- Challenges: The bench hasn’t given the team much, and asking the starters to do everything? That’s apparent. Defensive breakdowns have come at the worst possible times.
Indiana Pacers
- Recent Performance: Indiana has closed both games strong. Siakam’s 39 in Game 2 gave them the extra push to pull away, and they’ve controlled the pace when it matters most.
- Key Players: Haliburton’s shot hasn’t been falling, but he’s still running the offense well and keeping everyone involved.
- Strengths: The Pacers are getting good production across the board. They’ve moved the ball well and haven’t had to lean too heavily on one or two guys.
Best Bets
Want to know the best bets? We got you!
- Jalen Brunson Over 31.5 Points: He’s cleared this number in both games, and it’s obvious that the Knicks need every basket that he can get them.
- Pacers -2: Indiana’s looked like the better team in close quarters, and they’ve been better down the stretch. And home floor gives them the advantage to cover this spread.
- Over 224 Total Points: Defense hasn’t been the main storyline in the series; both squads have scored with no problem, and unless that suddenly changes, this number’s in range again.
Interesting Player Props
- Pascal Siakam Points: He put up 39 in Game 2 and has been getting really good looks in the midrange. If his number lands under 25? It’s definitely worth a look.
- Tyrese Haliburton Assists: He’s not shooting much, but he’s still dishing. If the line holds around 9.5, it’s totally reasonable given his role.
- Isaiah Hartenstein Rebounds: Because Robinson is not at full strength, Hartenstein’s minutes have gone up. His rebound total could hit double digits again if he stays on the floor.
Final Thoughts: Can the Knicks Come Back in Indy?
The Knicks don’t have a lot of wiggle room left. Down 0–2, they have to get a win in Indiana just to keep this series going. Brunson’s doing everything he can, but someone else has to help him out! The bench hasn’t been giving them much to work with.
Indiana’s playing loose and getting contributions from all over the roster. They’ve looked balanced and have been better at closing. If Game 3 follows the same pattern? New York could be looking at a sweep.
Final Score Prediction: Pacers 116 – Knicks 111
