Father-Son Reunion Sparks Historic Performance

The Indiana Pacers' 121-89 demolition of the New York Knicks in Game 4 will be remembered as more than just a playoff victory. Hours before tipoff, ESPN's Shams Charania broke news that transformed the game's narrative: John Haliburton's return to the stands after a controversial two-month ban stemming from a first-round confrontation with Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Tyrese Haliburton's emotional response became instant playoff legend. After a quiet Game 1 (6 points), the All-Star Guard erupted for 29.7 points per game in the subsequent matchups. His signature moment came with a halftime buzzer-beating stepback three that left Knicks defenders frozen - a shot executed under his father's watchful gaze from courtside seats.

Statistical Dominance

Haliburton's complete performance:

• 29 points (55% shooting)
• 10 assists
• 3 steals
• +28 plus/minus

Pacers' Tactical Masterclass

Indiana's strategy proved devastatingly effective:

• Held Knicks to playoff-low 14 first-quarter points
• Converted 38 transition points (playoff high)
• 14/31 from three-point range (45.2%)

Myles Turner's 18-point, 9-rebound contribution and T.J. McConnell's relentless energy off the bench exposed New York's defensive frailties, particularly without OG Anunoby (hamstring).

Point Guard Duel Turns One-Sided

While Jalen Brunson's early-series heroics (35.4 PPG in Games 1-2) initially captivated audiences, Haliburton's sustained excellence has redefined the matchup:

• Brunson's IndiaNapolis struggles: 37% FG, 18% 3PT
• Haliburton's playoff averages: 22.1 PPG, 10.3 APG

The Pacers star remained characteristically humble postgame: "We're proving we belong here. This isn't about me - it's about 15 guys locked in."

Road to Redemption

With the series tied 2-2 and momentum shifting, key factors emerge:

• Indiana's perfect 5-0 home playoff record
• New York's transition defense vulnerabilities
• Haliburton's enhanced aggression since father's return

As the teams head back to Madison Square Garden for Game 5, one truth becomes clear: The Pacers have transformed from underdogs to legitimate contenders, with Haliburton's family-inspired resurgence writing the most compelling chapter of their playoff journey.