The 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Finals tip off tonight as the Indiana Pacers face the New York Knicks in Game 1 at Madison Square Garden. Both teams are vying for a spot in the NBA Finals, rekindling a storied rivalry that has captivated fans for decades.
What time is the game?
- Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2025
- Time: 8:00 PM ET
- Location: Madison Square Garden, New York City
Where to watch?
Fans can catch the action live on TNT, truTV, and MAX. For streaming options, the game will be available on MAX (regional restrictions may apply).
What to expect
The Knicks enter the series with strong momentum after a dominant series-clinching win over Boston. They hold a 2-1 edge from the regular-season matchups against the Pacers, with an average winning margin of 19 points in their victories. Jalen Brunson, recently named the NBA’s Clutch Player of the Year, has been stellar in the postseason, averaging nearly 29 points and 7 assists per game. New York has also seen strong contributions from Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, and bench players like Mitchell Robinson.
Indiana is led by Tyrese Haliburton, a standout playmaker averaging 19 points and 9 assists and integral to the league’s top-ranked offense. Key supporting players include Andrew Nembhard, known for his defense and poise, Aaron Nesmith’s energetic two-way play, Pascal Siakam’s seasoned versatility, and Myles Turner’s rim protection and shooting.
Series schedule
- Game 1: Wednesday, May 21 – 8:00 PM ET at New York
- Game 2: Friday, May 23 – 8:00 PM ET at New York
- Game 3: Sunday, May 25 – 8:00 PM ET at Indiana
- Game 4: Tuesday, May 27 – 8:00 PM ET at Indiana
- Game 5: Thursday, May 29 – 8:00 PM ET at New York (if necessary)
- Game 6: Saturday, May 31 – 8:00 PM ET at Indiana (if necessary)
- Game 7: Monday, June 2 – 8:00 PM ET at New York (if necessary
This series marks the ninth playoff meeting between the Pacers and Knicks, with each team having won four of the previous eight series. Their rivalry, which peaked in the 1990s, is known for its intensity and memorable moments. As the modern versions of these teams face off, fans can expect a blend of historical rivalry and contemporary basketball prowess.
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