Knicks Fall 2-0 in Eastern Conference Finals After Defensive Lapses

The New York Knicks find themselves down 0-2 in the Eastern Conference Finals after a 114-109 loss to the Indiana Pacers, despite a late comeback effort led by Jalen Brunson. The Knicks' defensive lapses, particularly their inability to contain Pascal Siakam who scored 39 points, and poor perimeter defense allowing the Pacers to shoot 43% from three-point range, have been costly. The Knicks' starting lineup, including Brunson, Josh Hart, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Karl-Anthony Towns, has struggled significantly throughout the playoffs, posting a minus-8.0 NET rating and a high defensive rating, while reserves like Mitchell Robinson and Miles McBride have performed better defensively. Coach Tom Thibodeau has not committed to changing the starting lineup despite these issues, emphasizing the need for effective combinations between starters and bench players. The series now moves to Indiana for Game 3, where the Knicks will seek to adjust and avoid falling into a deeper hole against a Pacers team demonstrating strong depth and efficiency. The Knicks acknowledge that correcting defensive mistakes and improving communication will be crucial moving forward.