If there has been one theme throughout the playoffs that rings true, it has been that depth wins. When comparing starting fives, many teams will matchup well over the course of time. Yet, when you get to the number 8, 9, and 10 guys off the bench, that’s where the separation truly starts.
This is not usually an issue in the NBA playoffs as most teams try to stick with the top 7 or 8 in the rotation. Yet, when it comes to the Pacers, they run deep. Very deep. That depth has been what has allowed them to keep the pace high and make the Knicks uncomfortable.
So what is the best solution for the Knicks? In my humble opinion, it is to slow the game down. Limit the quick shots unless it is in the paint. Also, analytics will blindly say to shoot threes. However, the Knicks need to limit the amount of deep threes as those misses can quickly turn into transition for the Pacers.
The Pacers should look to keep the flow of the game fast and run at all times. Thus far, Coach Rick Carlisle’s strategy is working wonders.
NBA Playoffs:
New York Knicks vs Indiana Pacers
Pacers lead series 2-0
Game Three
Spread
Knicks +2 (-110) WINNER
Pacers -2 (-110)
Total
Over 223.5 (-114)
Under 223.5 (-106) WINNER
Moneyline
Knicks (+110) WINNER
Pacers (-130)
Player Points
Jalen Brunson Over 31.5 (Even) Under 31.5 (-132)
Karl-Anthony Towns Over 21.5 (-104) Under 21.5 (-128)
Pascal Siakam Over 20.5 (-112) Under 20.5 (-118)
Tyrese Haliburton Over 20.5 (-102) Under 20.5 (-130)
Mikal Bridges Over 16.5 (-112) Under 16.5 (-118)
OG Anunoby Over 15.5 (-128) Under 15.5 (-104)
Myles Turner Over 14.5 (-104) Under 14.5 (-128)
Aaron Nesmith Over 12.5 (-104) Under 12.5 (-128)
Andrew Nembhard Over 11.5 (-108) Under 11.5 (-122)
Josh Hart Over 8.5 (-110) Under 8.5 (-120)
Obi Toppin Over 7.5 (-112) Under 7.5 (-118)
T.J. McConnell Over 7.5 (-114) Under 7.5 (-114)
Bennedict Mathurin Over 6.5 (-138) Under 6.5 (+104)
Mitchell Robinson Over 5.5 (-122) Under 5.5 (-108)
Double Result
Pacers / Pacers (+130)
Knicks / Knicks (+190)
Knicks / Pacers (+500)
Pacers / Knicks (+600) WINNER
Tie / Pacers (+3400)
Tie / Knicks (+3800)
