On May 30, 2025, the New York Knicks delivered a crucial victory in Game 5 of their playoff series against the Indiana Pacers, keeping their hopes alive for a third NBA Championship. Jalen Brunson leads Knicks to Game 7 opportunity by fueling team unity and relying on both star performances and unexpected bench contributions at Madison Square Garden.
Knicks’ crucial Game 5 victory shifts momentum with key bench support
With their backs against the wall, the Knicks pulled out a decisive 111-94 victory in Game 5 to remain in the postseason hunt. While Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson produced standout statistics, spotlighting 24 points and 32 points respectively, they emphasized crediting teammates who had been less prominent until now. Coach Tom Thibodeau’s reliance on bench players like Precious Achiuwa and Landry Shamet proved pivotal, especially as Towns wrestled with foul trouble and Mitchell Robinson faced targeted fouling.
The performance from the supporting cast gave the Knicks a renewed sense of belief and cohesion in the locker room heading into Game 6, with every player understanding the gravity of the moment on the road in Indiana.
Brunson highlights team mentality and praises bench professionalism
Jalen Brunson, reflecting on the team’s mentality, described the Knicks’ approach as one of readiness and resilience.
“In Indiana, as soon as the ball is tossed up in the air, got to be ready to go. That’s our mindset. That’s our mentality right now,”
Brunson said, further commending the bench unit.
“It’s a credit to their work ethic, credit to what they do, and the professionals that they are. And so, I’ve got a lot of respect for them. I’m just happy that they came in and did what they did,”
he added. —Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks guard
Karl-Anthony Towns echoed his teammate‘s sentiments during his postgame interview, praising the character and preparation shown by their lesser-used players throughout the series.
“I mean it just talks to the professionalism that they have, you know to be ready for their moment…We see them working, we see them always being ready for us…This series has shown their professionalism. It shows the character, and I hope the whole world and the fans recognize it,”
Towns stated. He also sounded a serious warning about the challenges ahead.
“We have no more room for error, our back’s against the wall… So we don’t bring that energy, we don’t bring that execution, our season will be over,”
he said. —Karl-Anthony Towns, New York Knicks center
Key factors Jalen Brunson and Knicks must control to extend series
Brunson’s 32-point outburst at Madison Square Garden demonstrated his ability to carry the offense when in rhythm, particularly during a dominant third quarter. To force a Game 7, the Knicks’ star guard must continue to set the tone by playing efficiently and avoiding foul trouble, letting his teammates share the workload rather than forcing plays under pressure. Doing this in front of an intense Indiana crowd will test his composure and strategic decision-making.
Towns’ inside presence remains critical, even as he battles through nagging knee pain and foul accumulation. His 24 points and 13 rebounds underlined his impact, but managing his minutes smartly is necessary, especially given Robinson’s vulnerability to fouling out. Thibodeau’s rotation choices, including using Precious Achiuwa in carefully timed bursts, could help maintain balance on the floor. Keeping Towns effective in the paint while allowing Robinson to absorb some fouls is a crucial tactical approach for the Knicks.
Bench players’ continued contributions will be vital for Knicks’ success
Game 5’s defensive intensity set a clear path forward for the Knicks. By actively contesting shots, rotating quickly on switches, and forcing the Pacers into tough late-clock decisions, the team showcased a blueprint for success. Role players like Bridges, McBride, Shamet, and Wright stepped up to disrupt Indiana’s offense, and their ability to replicate this high-energy defensive effort in Game 6 remains essential.
The depth and stamina of the bench will provide fresh legs and sharp minds, enabling the starters to conserve energy and focus. If Brunson maintains his scoring efficiency and the team sustains pressure on both ends, the Knicks will have a legitimate chance to push the series to a deciding Game 7 and possibly earn a berth in the 2025 NBA Finals.
Looking ahead: What’s at stake for the Knicks and the playoffs
The Knicks now face a must-win scenario in Game 6, with their season hanging in the balance. This game will test their ability to execute under intense pressure and capitalize on the momentum gained from their latest victory. A win would not only force a Game 7 showdown but also energize the locker room and fanbase heading into the most pivotal stage of the postseason.
The challenge remains steep, but the combined leadership of Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and their inspirational bench players has cultivated a resilient mindset within the team. Their unity and commitment to one another could prove decisive as they attempt to overcome the Indiana Pacers and keep their championship dream alive.