Halftime Report: Pacers Edge Knicks 58-54 in Pivotal Game 6 Battle

In a high-stakes Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals, the Indiana Pacers head into halftime with a 58-54 lead over the New York Knicks, energizing the crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse and inching closer to their first NBA Finals appearance since 2000.

Indiana's first-half performance was marked by sharp perimeter shooting and aggressive defense. The Pacers connected on 8-of-15 attempts from beyond the arc and capitalized on 10 Knicks turnovers to maintain control heading into the break.

A Game of Runs

The Knicks started strong, building an early 9-4 advantage. However, the Pacers quickly turned the tide with consecutive three-pointers by Pascal Siakam and Aaron Nesmith, sparking momentum for the home team.

New York responded with a 7-0 surge to retake the lead late in the first quarter, but Indiana finished the frame strong with a five-point spurt, entering the second quarter ahead 25-24. The Pacers’ defense stood out early, forcing six turnovers in the opening period.

Trading Blows in the Second Quarter

The second quarter saw both teams continue to trade scoring runs. OG Anunoby provided a lift for New York with six straight points to tie the game at 33. Indiana’s response came in the form of long-range shots from Obi Toppin and Tyrese Haliburton, swinging the momentum once more.

An 8-2 Knicks burst tied the game again, but the Pacers answered with their own 8-3 run, highlighted by Haliburton’s electric dunk in transition and sharp decision-making. Indiana held on to its lead, entering halftime up by four.

First-Half Leaders

• Pascal Siakam: 16 points (5-of-8 FG, 2-of-2 3PT, 4-of-6 FT)
• Myles Turner: 9 points
• Tyrese Haliburton: 8 points, 6 assists
• Obi Toppin: 7 points, 4 rebounds
• Andrew Nembhard: 4 points, 5 assists, 5 steals
• OG Anunoby (Knicks): 14 points (6-of-9 FG)
• Mikal Bridges: 11 points
• Jalen Brunson: 10 points, 4 assists

Looking Ahead

With two quarters left, the Pacers are in a strong position to punch their ticket to the NBA Finals. Their balanced scoring, defensive intensity, and ability to respond to every Knicks run have been key to their first-half success.

Fans can follow live coverage on TNT and local radio at 93.5/107.5 The Fan. For NBA Finals tickets and updates, visit Pacers.com/Playoffs.