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Haliburton and Brunson Ignite Classic Rivalry as Pacers Take Early Series Lead

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Table of Contents

Eastern Conference Finals Deliver Instant Classic

The Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks have reignited one of basketball's fiercest playoff rivalries in the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals. Emerging stars Tyrese Haliburton and Jalen Brunson are leading this high-stakes showdown, with Indiana claiming a 2-0 series lead through dramatic finishes and physical battles.

Game 1: Overtime Thriller at MSG

Haliburton's Redemption Arc

With 22 seconds left in regulation, Haliburton silenced Madison Square Garden by sinking a game-tying three-pointer from 28 feet - his first made three of the night. The Pacers guard completed his redemption story in overtime, finishing with 31 points and 11 assists while channeling Reggie Miller's iconic "choke" gesture.

Haliburton and Brunson Ignite Classic Rivalry as Pacers Take Early Series Lead

Nesmith's Breakout Performance

Aaron Nesmith became Indiana's unexpected hero, scoring 20 of his 30 points in the fourth quarter. The sharpshooter went 8-for-9 from three-point range, including four crucial makes during Indiana's late-game surge.

Game 2: Controversy and Resilience

Officiating Takes Center Stage

The Pacers' 121-120 victory was overshadowed by officiating disputes, particularly an uncalled shove by Knicks forward Josh Hart on Haliburton. Coach Rick Carlisle's postgame criticism resulted in a $35,000 fine but highlighted growing tensions between the franchises.

Brunson's Valiant Effort

Despite battling foot soreness, Jalen Brunson delivered 29 points and 9 assists. The Knicks star's second-quarter absence proved costly as Indiana built a 15-point lead they never relinquished.

Key Factors Shaping the Series

Star Power Showdown

Tyrese Haliburton: 32.5 PPG / 10 APG series average
Jalen Brunson: 36.0 PPG / 7.5 APG through two games

Tactical Battlegrounds

Indiana's league-best 42.1% playoff three-point shooting
New York's +8.2 rebound differential this postseason

What's Next

The series shifts to Gainbridge Fieldhouse for Games 3 (May 25) and 4 (May 27). Key questions remain about Brunson's health and New York's ability to contain Indiana's transition offense.

How to Watch

TV: TNT (U.S.), TSN (Canada), TNT Sports (UK)
Stream: MAX (U.S.), NBA League Pass (International)

Legacy in the Making

This ninth playoff meeting between the franchises continues to deliver historic moments. With both teams chasing their first NBA Finals appearance in decades, the stage is set for an unforgettable chapter in basketball's greatest rivalry.