In a high-scoring contest, the Indiana Pacers claimed a decisive 132-121 victory over the New York Knicks, propelled by breakout performances from their young stars. Bennedict Mathurin stole the show with a career-high 38 points, including seven three-pointers, establishing himself as a rising force in the Pacers’ lineup. Indiana’s balanced attack overwhelmed the Knicks, improving their record to 5-5 and leaving New York at 4-5 in a season that has seen both teams showcase promise but struggle with consistency.
Mathurin’s night was a revelation for Pacers fans and NBA enthusiasts alike. The sophomore guard delivered an offensive masterclass, hitting shots from all over the court and proving lethal from beyond the arc with a career-high seven three-pointers. His confidence and scoring ability have taken a leap, giving Indiana a much-needed scoring punch alongside Tyrese Haliburton. Mathurin’s eight rebounds also underscored his growth as a more complete player, as he contributed on both ends of the floor.
Tyrese Haliburton provided stellar support, notching an impressive 35 points and 14 assists. Haliburton’s playmaking continues to elevate Indiana’s offense, with his court vision and timing setting up numerous scoring opportunities for his teammates. His four three-pointers and two steals showcased his all-around impact, blending scoring with defensive contributions. Haliburton’s partnership with Mathurin is developing into one of the league’s more exciting young backcourts, with their synergy giving the Pacers a solid foundation for the future.
Myles Turner, Indiana’s defensive anchor, added 26 points and six rebounds, showing his versatility as a scoring option and rim protector. Turner’s presence in the paint was crucial, not only for his ability to finish inside but also in drawing defenders and creating space for Mathurin and Haliburton. Turner’s scoring and defensive prowess give Indiana an edge against teams like the Knicks, who rely heavily on their own big men to control the paint. Turner’s contributions on both ends helped Indiana maintain momentum, keeping New York at bay throughout the game.
Advertisement
We’re on Social Media
Follow us on X
See more football highlights
On the Knicks’ side, Jalen Brunson was the standout performer, recording 33 points, six rebounds, and 10 assists. Brunson’s scoring and playmaking were instrumental in keeping New York competitive, as he took charge of the offense and created opportunities in the face of Indiana’s strong defensive effort. Brunson’s leadership on the floor has been invaluable for the Knicks, but his efforts alone weren’t enough to overcome Indiana’s balanced attack.
Karl-Anthony Towns also had a strong game for New York, adding 30 points and nine rebounds. Towns showcased his scoring versatility, making his presence felt in the post and hitting from mid-range. His ability to stretch the floor adds a valuable dimension to New York’s offense, but the Knicks’ overall defensive struggles made it difficult to capitalize on his offensive output. Towns’ rebounding and inside scoring were highlights, yet without consistent defensive support, New York struggled to contain Indiana’s fast-paced offense.
Indiana’s win underscored their commitment to an up-tempo style of play that emphasizes three-point shooting and ball movement. Their offensive efficiency was on full display, as they spread the floor and punished New York’s defense with precision passing and timely shot-making. The Pacers’ ability to get out in transition and convert three-point opportunities put the Knicks on their heels, with Mathurin and Haliburton setting the tone early.
Defensively, the Pacers showed resilience, with Turner anchoring the paint and Haliburton and Mathurin applying pressure on the perimeter. While the game was high-scoring, Indiana’s ability to make crucial stops in the fourth quarter allowed them to pull away from New York. Head coach Rick Carlisle’s emphasis on defensive fundamentals has been gradually paying off, even in high-octane games like this one, where each defensive stop counted.
For New York, the loss highlights some of their recurring challenges, particularly on the defensive end. While Brunson and Towns have been effective offensively, the Knicks’ struggles to close out on shooters and protect the perimeter have led to costly lapses. Head coach Tom Thibodeau has been vocal about the need for defensive intensity, but New York’s inconsistent effort on that front was exposed by Indiana’s sharpshooting. If the Knicks hope to turn things around, they’ll need to find a way to balance their offense with a more disciplined defense.
The Knicks’ 4-5 record reflects a team still searching for an identity, while Indiana’s .500 record suggests a squad capable of punching above its weight when everything clicks. Indiana’s dynamic young core, led by Mathurin and Haliburton, has already shown flashes of brilliance, and games like these give them valuable experience in high-pressure situations. If Indiana can continue to develop this core and find consistency, they may surprise many this season.
Ultimately, this game showcased the exciting potential of both teams’ star players. Mathurin’s breakout performance, Haliburton’s leadership, and Turner’s steady presence give the Pacers a strong foundation. For New York, Brunson and Towns provide a formidable one-two punch, but without defensive improvements, they’ll struggle to keep pace with teams like Indiana that can score in bunches.