Knicks Rally From 20 Down to Stun Pacers, Reignite Eastern Conference Finals Hopes

Knicks Stage Stunning 20-Point Comeback to Revive Eastern Conference Finals Hopes
By Alex Raskin | Updated: May 26, 2025

The New York Knicks proved no deficit is insurmountable in the playoffs, rallying from 20 points down to stun the Indiana Pacers 106-103 in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals. The victory cuts Indiana’s series lead to 2-1 and reignites the Knicks’ championship hopes.

A Tale of Two Halves
The Pacers dominated early, building a 20-point lead in the second quarter behind a 13-0 run. However, the Knicks clawed back with a 22-7 surge in the second half, led by Karl-Anthony Towns’ explosive 20-point fourth quarter. Towns finished with 27 points and 15 rebounds, while Jalen Brunson added 23 points.

[Image: Karl-Anthony Towns celebrating a clutch basket, arms raised in triumph.]

Resilience Becomes Routine
This marks the second time this postseason the Knicks erased a 20-point road deficit, having done so against the Boston Celtics in the second round. Ironically, New York had previously blown a 17-point lead in Game 1 of this series, allowing Indiana’s Tyrese Haliburton to force overtime with a dramatic three-pointer.

[Image: Jalen Brunson driving to the basket, Pacers defenders in pursuit.]

Key Performances

• Towns’ Redemption: After a quiet Game 2, the Knicks center dominated the paint, shooting 10-of-18 from the field.
• Brunson’s Steady Hand: The guard dished out 6 assists, orchestrating the comeback despite early shooting struggles.
• Haliburton’s Off Night: Indiana’s star managed 20 points but shot just 2-of-8 from three-point range.

What’s Next
Game 4 tips off Tuesday in Indianapolis, where the Knicks aim to level the series. “We’re not done yet,” Towns declared postgame. “This team thrives when our backs are against the wall.”

[Image: Pacers fans looking dejected as Knicks celebrate on their home court.]

Stat Sheet

• 3-Point Woes: Indiana shot a dismal 5-of-25 from deep.
• Clutch Defense: New York held the Pacers to 45 second-half points after allowing 58 in the first.

With momentum shifting, the Knicks have transformed from underdogs to legitimate contenders, proving resilience trumps even the steepest odds.