INDIANAPOLIS — In the aftermath of a heated game, basketball coaches often provide broad generalizations about what transpired, reserving detailed analysis for later film review. Following Sunday’s 106-100 loss to the New York Knicks in Game 3 of the 2025 Eastern Conference finals, Indiana Pacers’ head coach Rick Carlisle noted that the Knicks’ stronger defensive lineup in the second half made scoring difficult. Unmentioned was the reduced presence of Jalen Brunson, the All-NBA guard who presents a target for the Pacers’ offense.
Brunson acknowledged the challenge of defending against targeted plays, emphasizing the need to contest shots without fouling. However, his defensive performance, along with that of his teammates, has been insufficient. The Pacers, led by Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam, have exploited the Knicks’ defense, leading to a 3-1 series advantage. As the series shifts to Madison Square Garden for Game 5, the Pacers are on the brink of their first NBA Finals appearance in 25 years, while the Knicks fight to extend their season.
New York head coach Tom Thibodeau highlighted the team’s defensive struggles, noting that guarding elite players requires collective effort. Mikal Bridges has struggled to contain Haliburton, while Siakam has outperformed OG Anunoby and other defenders. Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson’s difficulties on switches have further complicated the Knicks’ defense.
The Pacers have effectively targeted Brunson, exploiting his defensive weaknesses to create scoring opportunities. Advanced metrics show that the Knicks allow significantly more points with Brunson on the court. In the series, Indiana’s perimeter players have shot exceptionally well against Brunson, contributing to the team’s high scoring efficiency.
The Pacers’ strategy involves attacking Brunson in various ways, including pick-and-rolls and transition plays, aiming to disorient him and force other Knicks defenders to cover for him. This has led to a chaotic defense, as highlighted by Josh Hart.
The Knicks’ defensive issues are particularly evident when Brunson and Towns play together. Data shows that the team performs better when either player is off the court. In Game 3, Thibodeau’s adjustments, including using guards Landry Shamet and Delon Wright, provided better defensive size and communication, contributing to the Knicks’ lone win in the series.
As the Knicks face elimination in Game 5, the question remains whether their defensive approach, particularly with Brunson and Towns on the court, can rise to championship level. The series outcome may reveal whether the team’s season-long efforts and investments have laid a fundamentally flawed foundation or if this is a temporary setback for a team with a promising future.