The New York Knicks took care of the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals on Thursday night. Now, everything hinges on a win-or-go-home Game 6 for the Knicks as the team heads to Gainbridge Fieldhouse with Indiana up 3-2 in the series.
New York needed a huge game from Jalen Brunson in the last matchup, where he dropped 32 points en route to a 111-94 victory at Madison Square Garden. Will the Pacers advance to the NBA Finals to face Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder next Thursday or will the Knicks force a Game 7 back at MSG on Monday?
Given all the storylines, here are some of the bets that standout for Saturday night's game.
Odds are as of publication time. For the most up-to-date odds, visit ESPN BET
Bets for Saturday
Josh Hart over 13.5 total rebounds and assists (-110)
This unique prop combines two of Hart's greatest complementary skills; hustle and vision. The shift out of the starting lineup has actually helped Hart's rebounding potential and production, as he's now on the floor with just one big, positioning him to work the glass. The Pacers will likely do their best to force the ball out of Jalen Brunson's hands, which would lead to more on-ball possessions for Hart.
Andrew Nembhard over 3.5 assists (-140)
The Knicks employed a more aggressive strategy defending Tyrese Haliburton in Game 5. New York had Mikal Bridges face-guarding and denying Haliburton whenever off the ball, while also sending extra coverage his way just as he crossed half-court on other possessions. This strategy proved effective and pushed creation duties throughout the Indiana lineup. Haliburton can overcome such shifts and Rick Carlisle will have some new looks ready, but the intent from New York suggests they'll also adapt. In the end, this means Nembhard could have the ball and creation duties more often.
Mitchell Robinson under 12.5 total points and rebounds (-125)
Fading Robinson isn't always an easy task, as his usage can fluctuate based on early returns. While he could extend his role with a strong start against the Pacers, the Knicks will likely need to run a smaller lineup to keep up with Indiana's pace making this under appealing.
Projections and injury reports
Basketball Power Index by ESPN Analytics. Injury aggregation by Rotowire.com. Odds by ESPN BET
New York Knicks at Indiana Pacers
8 p.m. ET on TNT
Line: Knicks 4.5 (-115) | Pacers -4.5 (-105)
Money line: Knicks +150 | Pacers -180
Total: 220.5 (-115 O, -105 U)
BPI Projection: Pacers by 2.9, straight up 60%, 224.3 total points.
Injury Report:
Knicks: None reported
Pacers: Tony Bradley, (GTD - Hip); Isaiah Jackson, (OFS - Achilles)