New York Knicks vs Indiana Pacers: Prediction and Picks, February 11, 2025

Game Details

📅 Date: Tuesday, February 11, 2025
⏰ Time: 7:30 PM ET
🏟 Venue: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN
📺 Broadcast: ESPN

Game Preview

The New York Knicks (32-20) take on the Indiana Pacers (29-23) in an exciting Eastern Conference showdown. The Knicks have been one of the best defensive teams this season, ranking top 5 in defensive efficiency, while the Pacers continue to play at one of the fastest paces in the league.

The Knicks are coming off a 109-102 victory over the Raptors, where Jalen Brunson led the charge with 32 points. Meanwhile, Indiana just snapped a two-game losing streak with a dominant 121-110 win over the Hawks, thanks to a 35-point performance from Tyrese Haliburton.

With both teams in the playoff hunt, this matchup could have major seeding implications. Will the Knicks’ defensive discipline slow down the Pacers' run-and-gun offense, or will Indiana’s up-tempo playstyle wear out New York? Let’s break it down.

New York Knicks: Recent Form & Key Factors

The Knicks have been playing outstanding defense, holding opponents to just 104.8 PPG in their last five games. Their ability to control the tempo and limit fast-break points will be critical against the high-flying Pacers.

Key Strengths for the Knicks

✔ Elite Defense – The Knicks allow just 107.1 PPG, ranking 3rd in the NBA in defensive rating.
✔ Jalen Brunson’s Leadership – Averaging 25.8 PPG, 6.4 APG, he is the steady hand that keeps New York’s offense in check.
✔ Rebounding Edge – The Knicks rank 2nd in the NBA in total rebounds per game, led by Julius Randle (9.4 RPG) and Mitchell Robinson (8.7 RPG).

Key Weaknesses for the Knicks

❌ Inconsistent Outside Shooting – The Knicks shoot just 35.2% from three, ranking 19th in the league.
❌ Bench Production – With R.J. Barrett traded, New York’s bench has struggled to provide consistent scoring.

Indiana Pacers: Recent Form & Key Factors

The Pacers play one of the fastest paces in the NBA, averaging 120.3 PPG (2nd in the league). If they can force the Knicks into a high-scoring affair, they’ll have a good chance to win at home.

Key Strengths for the Pacers

✔ Tyrese Haliburton’s Playmaking – Averaging 21.5 PPG, 10.7 APG, he leads the NBA in assists per game.
✔ Fast-Paced Offense – The Pacers play at the 3rd-fastest pace in the NBA, creating mismatches in transition.
✔ Home-Court Advantage – Indiana has a solid 17-9 home record, making them a tough matchup in their building.

Key Weaknesses for the Pacers

❌ Defensive Issues – The Pacers allow 118.9 PPG, ranking 25th in defensive efficiency.
❌ Turnover Problems – They commit 14.7 turnovers per game, which plays into the Knicks' defensive strengths.

Betting Odds & Trends

🔹 Spread: Knicks -2.5
🔹 Over/Under: 225 total points
🔹 Moneyline: Knicks -140 | Pacers +120

Betting Trends

📌 The Knicks are 5-1 against the spread (ATS) in their last six games.
📌 The Pacers are 4-2 ATS in their last six home games.
📌 The under has hit in 7 of the Knicks' last 9 games.
📌 Indiana has gone over the total in 5 of their last 7 games.

Final Prediction & Picks

This game is a clash of styles, with the Knicks relying on defense and rebounding, while the Pacers aim to push the pace and create easy buckets. New York’s ability to limit transition points and control the glass gives them the slight edge here.

🔹 Final Score Prediction: Knicks 111, Pacers 106
🔹 Best Bet: Knicks -2.5
🔹 Over/Under Pick: Under 225 – The Knicks' defense should slow the tempo enough to keep this under the total.

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