The Indiana Pacers vs New York Knicks matchup is one of the most compelling rivalries in the NBA today — blending decades of historic clashes with high-stakes modern competition. From classic playoff battles and iconic performances to exciting regular-season showdowns, the Pacers and Knicks consistently deliver thrilling basketball that captures global fan attention.
Historic Rivalry: From the ’90s to Now
The Knicks–Pacers rivalry traces back to 1977 and reached its peak in the 1990s when legends like Reggie Miller and Knicks fan Spike Lee turned postseason games into cultural events. This feud was defined by intense playoff battles and dramatic endings, making it one of the NBA’s most combustible rivalries.
In more recent years, the rivalry has been rekindled multiple times — especially in the 2013 playoffs and again in the 2024 and 2025 postseason runs.
Playoff Drama: Pacers’ Return to Glory
One of the most recent highlights came in the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals, where the Pacers defeated the Knicks in a hard-fought series and reached the NBA Finals for the first time in 25 years. Indiana sealed the series with a dominant 125-108 win in Game 6, powered by Pascal Siakam and Tyrese Haliburton’s leadership.
Earlier in that series, Haliburton delivered a historic performance with a rare playoff stat line — recording 32 points, 15 assists, and 12 rebounds without a turnover, a feat unprecedented in postseason play.
These moments showcased both teams’ competitive fire and meaningful playoff implications that go beyond typical league matchups.
Regular Season Battles Still Matter
The rivalry isn’t limited to postseason intensity — regular season matchups consistently draw attention. For example, on October 26, 2024, the Knicks dominated a home matchup with a 123-98 win led by Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns.
The competitive edge remains strong even into the 2025–26 season. In their latest matchup, the Knicks edged the Pacers 114-113, capped by a clutch Jalen Brunson 3-pointer in the final seconds.
Head-to-Head Stats & Trends
Looking at the historical statistics between these two squads reveals the close nature of their matchups over decades. All-time figures show the Pacers with a record of 96–102 in head-to-head games, reflecting how closely contested this rivalry has been over the years.
Both teams have similar scoring averages and shooting percentages in their meetings, highlighting balanced competition and predictability in pacing and intensity.
What This Rivalry Means Today
The Pacers and Knicks rivalry continues to evolve as both franchises build around new stars while honoring tradition:
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Pacers: Emerging as a strong contender with young talent and postseason success.
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Knicks: Seeking consistency and deeper playoff runs with veteran leadership.
Whether it’s a marquee regular-season duel or a high-pressure playoff series, Pacers vs Knicks remains a must-watch NBA matchup for fans worldwide.
Conclusion
The Pacers vs Knicks rivalry blends history, passion, and modern basketball excellence. From legendary moments in Madison Square Garden to championship aspirations, this rivalry defines what makes NBA basketball so exciting. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, these games are always packed with storylines worth following.
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