After the first three close games in this semi-final in the East, Game 4 delivered a completely different scenario where the Knicks were swept by the Pacers (121-89). The New York Knicks went down in Gainbridge Fieldhouse. In the Pacers’ fortress, they led only once, on their first possession. The rest of the game was one-sided.
A nightmare evening for the Knicks
Omnipresent in both rackets, like a defensive rebound followed by another offensive one to make a first break at 19-8, Myles Turner flew through the first half. Driven by unusual shooting success (4/4 including two three-pointers), the Pacers pivot physically dominated the Knicks.
If the first period ended with a great score (69-41), the second was also nightmarish for New York. Facing them, their tormentor Tyrese Haliburton finished the game with 20 points and 6 rebounds. Still as apathetic, the Knicks let the Pacers wander around in their defense like Aaron Nesmith who was able to pass the 100 point mark on the scoreboard with ease at the end of the third quarter.
Faced with the collapse of his team and in view of the numerous absences such as strong winger Julius Randle, Thibodeau decided to rotate at the end of the match to prepare for Game 5 which will take place at Madison Square Garden.
