Indiana Pacers Make History: Defeat Knicks to Reach First NBA Finals Since 2000

The Indiana Pacers have rewritten their legacy by dominating the New York Knicks in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals, earning their first trip to the NBA Finals since 2000. The Pacers vs. Knicks matchup was filled with drama, resilience, and standout performances that electrified fans across the globe. Now, the Pacers will face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA’s biggest showdown.

A 25-Year Wait Ends in Style

The Pacers hadn’t reached the NBA Finals since the 2000 NBA Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers. On Saturday night, that long wait ended as Indiana crushed the Knicks 125–108 in a powerful display of teamwork, pace, and precision. From the first whistle, it was evident that the Pacers game plan was superior, and they executed it flawlessly.

Game 6 Recap: Indiana’s Statement Win

In a Knicks vs. Pacers series that had been tightly contested, Game 6 saw the Pacers unleash their full potential. Leading the charge was Pascal Siakam, who dropped a team-high 31 points and took home the Eastern Conference Finals MVP (ECF MVP) honors. The star forward not only scored at will but also disrupted the Knicks’ game plan on both ends of the court.

Tyrese Haliburton added 21 points and 13 assists, showcasing his command as the team’s playmaker. His Haliburton stats were crucial throughout the series, keeping Indiana’s tempo high and the offense fluid.

Siakam Shines as Eastern Conference Finals MVP

When the Pacers traded for Siakam, many hoped he would bring championship DNA to Indiana. He delivered. In this series alone, he averaged over 25 points per game and came up big during crunch time, making him a deserving recipient of the Eastern Conference Finals MVP. Siakam’s consistent performances were the difference-maker in this Pacers vs. Knicks series.

Haliburton: The Heartbeat of Indiana’s Offense

Tyrese Haliburton has emerged as one of the most exciting guards in the NBA. Against the NY Knicks, his vision and unselfishness were unmatched. His Game 6 performance—21 points, 13 assists, 3 steals—helped set the tone early, and he repeatedly dismantled the Knicks’ defense with quick passes and confident drives.

If you’re tracking Haliburton stats, this was his best playoff series to date, a performance that elevated his stature as a future All-NBA candidate.

Knicks’ Struggles in Game 6

The New York Knicks entered Game 6 with hopes of forcing a Game 7 at Madison Square Garden. But poor shooting, turnovers, and a lack of defensive stops doomed them. The Knicks score just couldn’t keep pace with Indiana’s rapid transition play. Despite flashes from their star players, the Knicks game lacked the edge needed to match Indiana’s intensity.

This marks another playoff disappointment for the NY Knicks, who haven’t reached the NBA Finals since 1999.

Where to Watch Pacers vs. Knicks and NBA Finals

Missed the Pacers vs. Knicks series? You can find replays and highlights on platforms like NBA League Pass, ESPN, and YouTube. For those wondering where to watch Pacers vs Knicks, several online streaming platforms like Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and fuboTV offer replays and on-demand content.

Looking ahead, the NBA Finals between the Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder will be broadcast nationally on ABC, with full streaming availability.

Knicks vs. Pacers Match Player Stats

Here’s a quick look at key player statistics from the Knicks vs Pacers match player stats for Game 6:

• Pascal Siakam (Pacers): 31 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists
• Tyrese Haliburton (Pacers): 21 points, 13 assists, 3 steals
• Obi Toppin (Pacers): 18 points off the bench
• Jalen Brunson (Knicks): 24 points, 5 assists
• Julius Randle (Knicks): 19 points, 6 rebounds

These performances shaped the trajectory of this unforgettable series.

Pacers’ Journey Through the 2025 NBA Playoffs

The Pacers didn’t have the easiest path to the Finals. Their journey through the NBA Playoffs included knocking out elite teams like the Milwaukee Bucks and Cleveland Cavaliers. Now, after dispatching the Knicks, they stand four wins away from their first championship.

This season has seen the rise of underdog stories, and the Pacers game strategy—built on ball movement, team defense, and speed—has proven to be a winning formula.

Oklahoma City Thunder Await

As the Indiana Pacers gear up to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Finals, fans are anticipating a clash of young superstars and elite coaching. Both teams are loaded with talent and hungry for a title. The series promises to be electric.

The Legacy of the 2000 NBA Finals

Many older fans remember the 2000 NBA Finals, when the Pacers lost to Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal’s Lakers. That series marked the first and only Finals appearance for Indiana—until now. This current team, led by Siakam and Haliburton, has the tools to finish what Reggie Miller’s team started two decades ago.

New York Knicks: What’s Next?

The Knicks have had a rollercoaster season. They showcased grit and resilience throughout the NBA Playoffs, but the Pacers exposed their weaknesses. From inconsistent bench scoring to defensive lapses, the NY Knicks will have to regroup and reassess their roster ahead of next season.

Despite the loss, the Knicks game today showed that they are close—but still a few pieces away from being true title contenders.

Fan Reactions and Social Buzz

Social media lit up during the Pacers vs. Knicks showdown. Hashtags like #KnicksPacers, #NBAFinals, and #Siakam trended worldwide. Indiana fans celebrated long into the night, while Knicks fans mourned what could have been.

Final Thoughts: A New Era for the Pacers

This historic run by the Indiana Pacers has energized a loyal fanbase and breathed new life into a storied franchise. With elite performances by Siakam, Haliburton, and others, the Pacers are primed for greatness.

As the NBA Finals approach, basketball fans everywhere will be watching. One thing is certain: the Indiana Pacers are back—and they’re ready to make more history.