Pacers Win Thrilling Knicks Eastern Conference Game 1 Overtime

In a thrilling Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals, the Indiana Pacers overcame a late deficit to defeat the New York Knicks 138-135 in overtime at Madison Square Garden. Tyrese Haliburton was instrumental for the Pacers, scoring 31 points and delivering a buzzer-beater that tied the game at the end of regulation, a feat that ties an NBA playoff record for clutch shots. The Knicks, led by Jalen Brunson with 43 points and Karl-Anthony Towns with 35, maintained control for much of the game but faltered in the final moments, with Knicks forward Josh Hart noting a drop in intensity. NBA legend Magic Johnson hailed the game as the best of the playoffs and the year, praising both teams' performances and highlighting Haliburton's leadership in the comeback victory. Despite his earlier prediction favoring the Knicks to win the series, Johnson celebrated the Pacers' resilience and the game's excitement. The series continues with Game 2 at Madison Square Garden, with fans and analysts eagerly anticipating another high-stakes contest.