When fans ask, “Did the Knicks win?” the answer for Game 4 of the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals stings. The New York Knicks fell to the Indiana Pacers 130-121 on May 27, 2025, leaving them trailing 3-1 in the series. This loss puts the Knicks on the brink of elimination, with Game 5 looming as a must-win at Madison Square Garden. Despite a valiant effort from Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, the Pacers’ Tyrese Haliburton delivered a historic performance, cementing Indiana’s dominance. Let’s dive into what happened, why it matters, and what’s next for New York’s playoff hopes.
The Game 4 Breakdown: Why Did the Knicks Win Elude Them?
The Knicks entered Game 4 desperate to even the series after a thrilling Game 3 comeback. They trailed by 20 points in that game but clawed back for a 106-100 victory, fueled by Towns’ 20 fourth-quarter points. Hopes were high that New York could carry that momentum into Indianapolis. Instead, the Pacers showcased their offensive prowess, led by Haliburton’s triple-double of 32 points, 15 assists, and 12 rebounds—remarkably with zero turnovers. Pascal Siakam chipped in 30 points, and Bennedict Mathurin added 20 off the bench.
New York’s defense struggled to contain Indiana’s fast-paced attack. The Pacers shot 51.1% from the field and 40.6% from three, capitalizing on transition opportunities. Brunson led the Knicks with 31 points, and Towns added 24 points and 12 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough. A late knee issue for Towns, who was seen limping, raised concerns about his availability moving forward. The Knicks’ inability to force turnovers or slow Indiana’s rhythm proved costly, leaving fans wondering, “Did the Knicks win?” with a disappointing answer.
| Team | Points | FG% | 3P% | Rebounds | Assists | Turnovers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pacers | 130 | 51.1% | 40.6% | 33 | 29 | 11 |
| Knicks | 121 | 47.7% | 38.1% | 40 | 13 | 13 |
- Haliburton’s Historic Night: First player in NBA playoff history with 30+ points, 15+ assists, and 10+ rebounds without a turnover.
- Knicks’ Struggles in Crunch Time: Brunson couldn’t penetrate the paint late, stifled by Indiana’s defense.
- Pacers’ Bench Edge: Mathurin’s 20 points outshone New York’s reserves, who managed just 21 points combined.
Did the Knicks Win Any Ground in the Series?
Despite the loss, the Knicks showed resilience. Their Game 3 win proved they can compete with Indiana’s high-octane offense. Coach Tom Thibodeau’s decision to start Mitchell Robinson alongside Towns paid dividends in Game 3, bolstering the paint presence. However, Game 4 exposed defensive lapses, particularly in transition, where the Pacers thrive. New York’s starters, including OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges, need to step up defensively to disrupt Indiana’s flow.
The series now shifts back to New York for Game 5 on May 29. The Knicks face a daunting task: no NBA team has ever overcome a 3-0 deficit, and a 3-1 hole is nearly as tough, with only 13 teams in history pulling it off. Brunson, averaging 28.8 points this postseason, remains the key. His ability to navigate foul trouble and create in clutch moments will decide if the Knicks can extend the series.
What’s at Stake for New York
The Knicks haven’t reached the NBA Finals since 1999, and this series is their closest shot in 25 years. A loss in Game 5 would end their season, but a win could spark hope for a historic comeback. Towns’ knee injury adds uncertainty, as his scoring and rebounding are critical when Brunson faces heavy defensive pressure. Fans are buzzing about whether New York can channel their Game 3 grit to keep the “Did the Knicks win?” question alive.
The Pacers, meanwhile, are one win from their first Finals appearance since 2000. Haliburton’s poise and Siakam’s playoff experience make them formidable. For the Knicks, it’s about tightening their defense, leveraging their home crowd, and hoping Towns can play through pain. The Garden will be electric, but the margin for error is razor-thin.
Can the Knicks Turn It Around?
Knicks fans know this team thrives on heart. Their three 20-point comebacks this postseason—two against Boston and one in Game 3—show their never-say-die spirit. Game 5 offers a chance to harness that energy. Thibodeau will likely lean on Robinson’s rim protection and Hart’s hustle off the bench to spark the team. If Brunson can exploit mismatches and Towns stays healthy, New York could force a Game 6 back in Indianapolis.
The question “Did the Knicks win?” won’t be answered until the final buzzer of Game 5. For now, the focus is on adjustments, energy, and belief. The Knicks have defied odds before, and with their season on the line, they’ll need every ounce of that resilience.
Join the Knicks’ Fight!
Knicks fans, it’s time to rally! Head to Madison Square Garden or tune in on May 29 at 8 p.m. ET on TNT to cheer on New York in Game 5. Share your predictions and hype up the team on social media—let’s make the Garden shake! Will the Knicks keep their Finals dream alive? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!