The question on every Knicks fan’s mind: Did the Knicks win? Unfortunately, the answer is no. In a pivotal Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals, the New York Knicks fell 130-121 to the Indiana Pacers, putting them down 3-1 in the best-of-seven series. With this loss, the Knicks are now on the verge of playoff elimination, and their NBA Finals hopes are hanging by a thread.
This was not just a routine defeat. It was a hard-hitting reminder of how quickly momentum can shift in a playoff series. Indiana controlled the pace, punished every turnover, and made New York pay for every defensive lapse. It was a game that slipped away early and never truly came back within reach.
Haliburton’s Dominance and Knicks’ Defensive Collapse
If there was one player who owned Game 4, it was Tyrese Haliburton. He didn’t just play well—he orchestrated Indiana’s offense with precision and poise. With over 30 points, double-digit assists, and not a single turnover, Haliburton carved up New York’s defense like a seasoned veteran in full command of the moment.
On the flip side, New York’s defense was simply not there. Giving up 43 points in the first quarter alone, the Knicks looked out of sync from the opening tip. Defensive miscommunications, late rotations, and an overall lack of urgency allowed the Pacers to shoot efficiently and get easy looks inside.
Key Game 4 Stats Breakdown:
- Pacers points in the paint: 50
- Knicks turnovers: 17
- Fast-break points by Indiana: 20+
- Knicks’ first-quarter deficit: Double digits early
Even when Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns tried to pull the Knicks back into it—combining for over 50 points—the gap was too wide. Indiana never lost control, and New York’s defensive lapses kept the lead comfortably in Pacers’ hands.
Did the Knicks Win? Not Tonight—And Now the Pressure Is On
It’s not just that the Knicks lost Game 4—it’s how they lost. After a gritty Game 3 win, there was hope that New York had found its rhythm. That confidence was quickly dashed in Game 4. With the Pacers now holding a 3-1 lead, the Knicks must win three straight games to reach the NBA Finals.
Let’s take a look at the series so far:
| Game | Score | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pacers 138 – Knicks 135 (OT) | Pacers |
| 2 | Pacers 114 – Knicks 109 | Pacers |
| 3 | Knicks 106 – Pacers 100 | Knicks |
| 4 | Pacers 130 – Knicks 121 | Pacers |
With Game 5 returning to Madison Square Garden, the Knicks have one thing going for them: the home crowd. But playing in front of your fans only helps if you execute—and that’s something New York has struggled to do consistently in this series.
Brunson, Towns Shine—but Team Needs More
There’s no denying that Jalen Brunson is playing like a superstar. He’s averaging well over 30 points per game in the series and constantly creating offense. Karl-Anthony Towns has also shown flashes of dominance, especially in the paint and on second-chance opportunities.
But in the playoffs, two players aren’t enough. The Knicks need consistent output from the rest of the rotation—especially from their defensive specialists. Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby have to lock in defensively. Quentin Grimes and Donte DiVincenzo need to stretch the floor with confident shooting. And the bench unit must bring energy and discipline—not mistakes.
Can the Knicks Bounce Back?
So—did the Knicks win? No. But the series isn’t over. A comeback from 3-1 is tough, but not impossible. If New York wins Game 5, they’ll head back to Indiana for Game 6 with momentum. And if they somehow force a Game 7? Anything can happen at the Garden.
But none of that will matter if they don’t bring focus, intensity, and flawless execution next game. The season is on the line—and how they respond could define this core’s legacy.
Game 5 tips off in New York soon—don’t miss it. Cheer on the Knicks and see if they can mount a historic comeback. Their backs are against the wall, and every possession matters.