Historic Pacers Shock Knicks in Game 7, Earn Eastern Finals Berth

In a stunning upset, the No. 6 Indiana Pacers overcame a 1-5 road record in the playoffs to defeat the No. 2 New York Knicks, 130-109, in Game 7. The Pacers' record-breaking shooting performance propelled them to a matchup against the No. 1 Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals.

In a dramatic Game 7 that could have sent the Knicks packing, the Indiana Pacers defied all odds with an astonishing 130-109 victory at Madison Square Garden. Their sizzling shooting performance, led by Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam, shattered multiple records and silenced the roaring Knicks crowd.

The Pacers, who had struggled on the road throughout the playoffs, flipped the script from the get-go. Their offensive execution was flawless, with players draining shots from all over the court. By the end of the first quarter, they had connected on an astounding 16 of 21 shots, including seven from beyond the arc, to grab a 39-27 advantage.

The Pacers' shooting prowess continued unabated in the second quarter, where they extended their lead to 15 points. Their 76% shooting from the field marked the highest mark for a playoff half in the last 25 years, showcasing their dominance on the offensive end.

Haliburton, the Pacers' dynamic point guard, spearheaded the attack with 26 points, including six three-pointers. His fiery leadership and unwavering confidence were evident as he engaged with Knicks players and celebrity fans seated courtside. Siakam, the former All-Star forward, was equally effective, contributing 20 points and four rebounds on an efficient 8-of-15 shooting.

Meanwhile, the Knicks' hopes of a Game 7 resurgence were dashed by an uninspiring performance from Jalen Brunson. The young guard, who had been a key factor in New York's success, struggled mightily, connecting on just six of 17 shots for 17 points. Brunson's woes were compounded by a fractured left hand late in the fourth quarter, effectively ending his night prematurely.

Injuries have plagued the Knicks throughout the postseason, and Game 7 proved no different. OG Anunoby, who started despite a hamstring injury, was forced to leave the game early after playing just under five minutes. Josh Hart, who played his usual high minutes, also struggled offensively, making just three of nine shots.

Alec Burks, New York's sixth man, provided a spark with 26 points off the bench, but the Pacers' depth proved insurmountable. T.J. McConnell, the quick and shifty point guard, torched the Knicks again with 12 points and seven assists. Isaiah Jackson added nine points for Indiana.

The Pacers' starting lineup showcased their versatility, with every member scoring in double figures. Aaron Nesmith was perfect from the field, going 8 of 8 for 19 points. Myles Turner contributed 17 points on 7-of-11 shooting, while Andrew Nembhard chipped in 20 points on an efficient 8-of-10 from the field.

Donte DiVincenzo, a bright spot for the Knicks, led all scorers with 39 points, including an impressive 9-of-15 from three-point range. However, his efforts were overshadowed by the Pacers' offensive onslaught.

The Pacers' victory was a testament to their resilience and determination. After suffering a humbling loss in Game 5 at MSG, they responded in spectacular fashion, answering the bell in Game 6 and silencing the Knicks crowd with their record-breaking performance in Game 7.

The Pacers will now face the Boston Celtics, who defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers in five games, in the Eastern Conference Finals. Indiana will hope to continue their improbable run, while the Knicks will look to regroup and rebuild ahead of next season.