The Knicks travel to Hoosierville for a whack at the Hicks.
This Sunday, the New York Knicks (4-4) will roll into Indianapolis to challenge the Indiana Pacers (4-5) at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Tip-off is at 5:00 PM ET on MSG Network and NBA League Pass.
Both teams want to climb the Eastern Conference ladder, and both are coping with copious injuries. The Knicks are riding high after Friday’s drubbing of the Milwaukee Bucks, while the Pacers are stinging from a 20-point loss to the Hornets. The Pacers were similarly humiliated by the Knicks on October 25. If they seek revenge, this will be their last chance until the teams meet again in February.
Not yet ten games into the campaign, the Knicks—led by an unstoppable Karl-Anthony Towns—have shown increasing signs of offensive brilliance. Their offensive rating of 120 places them third in the league. On the other end, their defense is progressing, now rated at 114.7 (17th).
Meanwhile, Indiana ranks 16th for offense, 23rd for defense, and their bench ranks fourth in the NBA with 42.9 points per game. Their second unit has combined to shoot a league-best 55% from the field.
Projected Starters
Tyrese Haliburton, the Pacers’ floor general, started slow, but after averaging 3.7 assists per game over the first three games, the head Hoosier has posted four straight double-doubles, including a 25-point, 12-assist win over the Mavericks. He should be joined by Andrew Nembhard in the backcourt if his knee is up to snuff (see below). When the two teams played in October, New York limited the two guards to a combined two points. Surely, they’ll top that today.
In his ninth season, Pascal Siakam is making his presence felt with 19.9 points per game on 54.7% shooting. His versatility on both ends of the floor continues to expand the possibilities for Pacers coach Rick Carlisle. Starting beside Siakam in the frontcourt will be forward Bennedict Mathurin and center Myles Turner.
The Knicks are expected to field their usual first five.
Injury Report
Indiana’s injury report is extensive. Isaiah Jackson (torn Achilles), Aaron Nesmith (sprained ankle), and James Wiseman (torn Achilles) are OUT. T.J. McConnell (illness), Nembhard (sore knee), and Obi Toppin (sprained ankle) are all QUESTIONABLE.
The Knicks continue to be without Mitchell Robinson and Precious Achiuwa. Their report lists Cameron Payne (hamstring) and Myles McBride (illness) as QUESTIONABLE.
Prediction
ESPN.com favors the Knicks by 55%. Makes sense. The Knicks are starting to fulfill the promise of their assembled Avengers, while the Pacers look consistent with preseason assessments. Add the fact that Indiana might be without some key supporting players, and an NY win should be a lock. Knicks by +10.
Game Details
Date: Sunday, November 10, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM ET
Venue: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis
Watch: MSG Network and NBA League Pass
Follow: @ptknicksblog