Indiana Pacers (47-35) vs. New York Knicks (50-32)
The clash between the Indiana Pacers and the New York Knicks continues in the NBA East Semifinals Game 2 on a brisk Wednesday evening at Madison Square Garden. Both teams have had impressive runs this season, with the Knicks securing a slightly better record. As they prepare for this pivotal matchup, fans and bettors alike are flocking to top online betting platforms, eyeing the evolving odds and strategizing their stakes.
The Pacers possess a well-established offense, tallying an outstanding average of 123.3 points during the regular season, which is definitely a lot higher than what the Knicks have. Their ball shots on aim are highlighted by a 50.7% field goal percentage and a 37.4% percentage from the three-point line. Moreover, the fact that they averaged 30.8 assists per game is a testament to their teamwork and ability to keep the other team trying to cover more ground. But on the other hand, they commit the most turnovers with an average of 12.3 in one game but the Knicks defense might take advantage of it.
From one side to the other, the Knicks have shown an excellent balance game and good defensive skills. Scoring an average of 112.8 points per game under their belt, their offensive output is just shy of the Pacers’, but their defensive rebounding (32.5 per game) is a hair shaving off okay, that can limit the Pacers’ second-chance points. The Knicks take care of their average three-point shooting at 36.9%, with which they will endeavor to match the Pacers’ perimeter shooting.
Indiana Pacers vs. New York Knicks Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Madison Square Garden |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Pascal Siakam (PF) vs. Jalen Brunson (PG)
Besides, the dynamic power forward Pascal Siakam has become a very important person for the Pacers, scoring 21.3 points and grabbing 7.8 rebounds per game. His capacity to impact both ends of the floor will set him apart, but he has to put more emphasis on his turnovers (1.4 per game) when playing against the Knicks who is arguably the best defensive team this season.
Jalen Brunson, the Knicks’ leading playmaker, reportedly has been the center of scoring with 28.7 points per game and a facilitator with the average of 6.7 assists. His assist-to-turnover ratio (2.8) shows his discipline and the crucial moment he plays as he is responsible for the Knicks’ offense coordination. Additionally, he commits only 1.9 fouls per game.
The direct matchup between Siakam and Brunson will be a showcase of contrasting styles: Siakam post position against Brunson, who is a perimeter shooter and facilitator of the game. The players’ capacity is inherently linked to the game tempo and outcome.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
With the betting odds yet to be determined, the close match-up suggests that the spreads and moneylines might be tight. The Pacers’ high-scoring offense meets the Knicks’ strategic defense, potentially pushing the total points scored in the game high.
Indiana Pacers Betting Trends
The Pacers ended the season on a solid note, posting a 4-1 score in their last five games. By their late performances, this team seems to have some fighting spirit that is crucial for playoff games particularly when they have been doing well in the games at away venues of their opponents (22-19).
New York Knicks Betting Trends
The Knicks who have won their last five outings straight up and another strong credit against the point spread while on the road (23-17). Frequent wins and high scoring efforts (like 5 of their last games over the points total) make them a team to watch out for.
Indiana Pacers vs. New York Knicks 5/8/24 Betting Picks
Considering both teams’ recent form and statistical strengths, this game is expected to be highly competitive. The Knicks’ slight edge in defensive efficiency might be the crucial factor in a high-pressure playoff environment.
In terms of betting, the safe pick would likely lean towards the Knicks at home, where they have shown they can control the pace and leverage their home crowd. Prop bets on player performances, especially on Brunson’s total points and assists, could offer additional value. In terms of over/under, given both teams’ tendency to exceed scoring expectations recently, betting over might be wise.
Look for a tightly contested game with the Knicks pulling away in the closing stages, making them the preferred choice in expert NBA Semifinals free picks.
