The New York Knicks played Game 5 at MSG against the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals last night, winning 111-94 and forcing at a game 6 at Indiana.

The Knicks had a good shooting night with 44 out of 89 field goals made.  It was one of the best shooting nights they had this series, which included some clutch shots that gave them the lead throughout each quarter of the game. The team also made their free throws when needed. Overall, their offense was definitely clicking last night as everyone was communicating and making their shots.

The Knicks defense played very well last night, but there is still room for improvement as the Knicks are one of the slowest teams to get back on defense in the playoffs right now.  The Knicks defense limited the Pacers’ point guard Tyrese Haliburton to 8 points, 6 assists, and 2 rebounds, which was a key part to them winning the game.

Game 6 is going to be played at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on Saturday night. Some key things the Knicks need to do to tie up the series 3-3  is making sure they play good defense against Haliburton since he is averaging 21 points, 6 rebounds, and 10 assists per game this series. We saw in Game 5 that the Knicks only allowed him to get 8 points. Next is making sure Jalen Brunson stays out of foul trouble because without him, the Knicks can’t do anything. In game 5, Jalen Brunson dropped 32 points as he is averaging 33 points per game this series.  So give the ball to Jalen. The most important key is making sure the Knicks make their free throws. I think the Knicks have the advantage going into Game 6 because they just came off an amazing win at MSG, and they know they have to win this game to force a 7 at the Garden.

I think the Knicks have to play that same defense they played in game 5 but do even more. They need to make sure \no one gets into foul trouble since that’s what keeps happening every game this series. Finally, making sure everyone is communicating on offense and making clutch free throws and put back layups.

If the Knicks win on Saturday, they know they can beat the Pacers in Game 7 at Madison Square Garden.  New York City is going crazy because us Knicks fans are going to see the Knicks in the NBA finals after 26 years. My final score prediction is the Knicks win 115 – 109.