Knicks’ win kept their championship hopes alive, narrowing the series deficit to 3-2 and forcing a critical Game 6 in Indianapolis. Beyond the immediate impact, their performances etched their names alongside NBA legends Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant, highlighting the duo’s rising stature in playoff history.

Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns became the first teammates since Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant in the 2002 Western Conference Finals to each score 20 or more points in the first five games of a Conference Finals series. 

The 2002 Lakers duo went on to win the NBA championship that year, setting a benchmark for Brunson and Towns as the Knicks strive to reach their first NBA Finals since 1999. 

Brunson and Towns: franchise-record scoring performances

Jalen Brunson delivered a masterclass in efficient scoring, pouring in 32 points on 12-of-18 shooting, including 5-of-8 from beyond the arc. His offensive outburst was complemented by five rebounds and five assists, showcasing his all-around contribution. Brunson’s 16-point third quarter, highlighted by a four-point play, helped the Knicks build a lead they would not relinquish.

This game marked Brunson’s 21st postseason outing with 30 or more points, setting a new franchise record for the Knicks. His ability to perform on the biggest stage has been a cornerstone of New York’s playoff run, and his leadership continues to inspire teammates and fans alike.

Karl-Anthony Towns, despite nursing a bruised left knee sustained late in Game 4, showed remarkable toughness and determination. He scored 17 points in the first half alone and finished the night with 24 points and 13 rebounds. Towns’ physical presence in the paint was a decisive factor, as the Knicks outscored the Pacers 60-34 inside the paint.

After a disastrous first quarter in Game 4 where the Knicks allowed 43 points, head coach Tom Thibodeau made significant defensive adjustments that paid dividends in Game 5. New York held Indiana to just 45 points in the first half, disrupting the Pacers’ offensive flow and limiting their star guard Tyrese Haliburton to a mere eight points and six assists.

Series shifts to Indiana for a decisive Game 6

With the series now 3-2 in favor of the Pacers, the Knicks face a must-win Game 6 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The stakes could not be higher, as only 13 teams in NBA history have overcome a 3-1 series deficit. 

If the Knicks can replicate their Game 5 performance and continue to feed off the leadership of Brunson and Towns, they have a real chance to force a Game 7 and potentially reach the NBA Finals for the first time in over two decades.