The Indiana Pacers faced a disheartening defeat against the New York Knicks, losing their second consecutive game. Despite holding a 15-point lead in the first half and maintaining an advantage with just two minutes left, the Pacers succumbed to a loss due to being outplayed, out-rebounded, and out-physicaled by their opponents.

Losing Grip on Lead

The Pacers were comfortably ahead at 47-32 with 6:32 remaining in the second quarter. However, their lead dwindled as Jalen Brunson took control for the Knicks, finishing with an impressive 40 points in a four-point victory. Indiana’s assistant coach, Lloyd Pierce, acknowledged the team’s foul troubles against Brunson and emphasized the need to improve their first-half performance.

Offensive Rebounding Woes

The key differentiator in this game was the offensive glass. While the Pacers had a better shooting percentage and made more three-pointers, the Knicks dominated the offensive boards with 24 rebounds, the highest by any Indiana opponent all season. This led to 10 extra shot attempts and 12 additional free throws for the Knicks, ultimately securing their victory.

Precious Achiuwa, Isaiah Hartenstein, Jericho Sims, and Josh Hart played pivotal roles in out-rebounding the Pacers, contributing to the Knicks’ success on the offensive glass.

Pacers Veterans Fall Short

With key players like Tyrese Haliburton on a minutes restriction and Bennedict Mathurin sidelined, the Pacers relied on their veterans to step up. Unfortunately, Buddy Hield, Myles Turner, and Pascal Siakam all underperformed in Madison Square Garden.

While Siakam statistically had a solid night with 18 points, seven rebounds, and five assists, it took him 19 shots and five turnovers to achieve these numbers. Hield struggled with his outside shooting, going 1/7 from deep, and Turner’s contribution on both ends of the floor was not impactful enough.

If any of the veteran players had been more effective, the outcome of the game might have been different. Their subpar performances proved costly for the Pacers.

Standout Performance by Jalen Smith

Despite the overall disappointment for the Pacers, backup center Jalen Smith showcased an outstanding performance. With 20 points, nine rebounds, two steals, and two blocks, Smith had one of his best games of the season. His impactful play, three-point shooting, defensive contributions, and teamwork earned him substantial minutes, even closing the game over the starting big man, Myles Turner.

Smith’s impressive performance, as reflected in his best game score of the season, was a silver lining for the Pacers in an otherwise challenging game.

Looking Ahead

The Pacers will be aiming for better performances from their veterans and a stronger presence on the boards in their upcoming games, including the one against the Sacramento Kings tonight.

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