Down 20, Knicks Rally To Shock Pacers: Game 3 Recap

David

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Post on May 28, 2025

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Down 20, Knicks Rally to Shock Pacers: Game 3 Recap

The New York Knicks authored one of the most improbable comebacks in recent NBA playoff history, stunning the Indiana Pacers 112-104 in Game 3 to take a commanding 2-1 series lead. Down by as many as 20 points in the third quarter, the Knicks displayed incredible resilience, fueled by a suffocating defense and a scorching hot fourth quarter offensive explosion. This victory wasn't just a win; it was a statement.

A First Half to Forget, Then a Historic Comeback

The Pacers started strong, dominating the boards and showcasing their offensive firepower early. Tyrese Haliburton orchestrated the offense with precision, while Bennedict Mathurin provided crucial scoring punch. The Knicks, on the other hand, struggled to find their rhythm, shooting poorly and committing costly turnovers. By halftime, the deficit was a daunting 15 points. Many began to write off the Knicks, predicting a Pacers sweep.

The Turning Point: Defense and Determination

The third quarter saw the Pacers extend their lead to a seemingly insurmountable 20 points. However, this is where the Knicks’ legendary grit shone through. Tom Thibodeau, the Knicks' notoriously defensive-minded coach, implemented adjustments that choked the life out of the Pacers’ offense. The Knicks intensified their defensive pressure, forcing turnovers and contesting every shot. This defensive surge sparked a gradual comeback, slowly chipping away at the Pacers' lead.

Fourth Quarter Frenzy: The Knicks Unleash Their Fury

The fourth quarter was nothing short of electrifying. Jalen Brunson, the Knicks' floor general, took over, scoring 14 points in the final frame. His leadership, combined with clutch performances from RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley, turned the tide completely. The Knicks outscored the Pacers 36-19 in the final period, a testament to their unwavering belief and determination. The crowd at Madison Square Garden was deafening, witnessing a comeback for the ages.

Key Players and Performances:

• Jalen Brunson: 30 points, 5 assists. Brunson's leadership and clutch scoring proved invaluable in the comeback.
• RJ Barrett: 20 points, 7 rebounds. Barrett provided crucial scoring support, especially in the final quarter.
• Immanuel Quickley: 15 points, 4 assists. Quickley's energy off the bench was a game-changer.
• Tyrese Haliburton: 26 points, 10 assists. While Haliburton played well, he couldn't prevent the Pacers' collapse.
• Bennedict Mathurin: 23 points. Mathurin's scoring was a bright spot for the Pacers, but it wasn't enough.

What's Next?

Game 4 presents a critical opportunity for the Knicks to seize control of the series. The Pacers, wounded but not broken, will look to bounce back and regain their composure. However, the Knicks have proven their resilience, and their confidence will be sky-high after such a remarkable comeback. This series is far from over, promising more thrilling basketball in the games to come. The question remains: can the Knicks maintain this momentum, or will the Pacers regain their dominance? Only time will tell.

Keywords: Knicks, Pacers, NBA Playoffs, Game 3 Recap, Comeback, Jalen Brunson, RJ Barrett, Tyrese Haliburton, Bennedict Mathurin, NBA, Basketball, Madison Square Garden, Playoffs 2024 (adjust year as needed)

Related Articles: (Links to hypothetical articles on your site - replace with actual links)

• [Link to Knicks Season Preview]
• [Link to Pacers Season Preview]
• [Link to analysis of the Knicks' defensive strategy]

Call to Action: Stay tuned for our comprehensive coverage of Game 4! Follow us for live updates and post-game analysis.