Pacers vs. Knicks pick against the spread, over/under for Game 2

The Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks will continue their second-round series in the 2024 NBA Playoffs Wednesday night with Game 2 from Madison Square Garden. The Pacers will be looking to even up the series after dropping Game 1, while the Knicks hope to hold serve at home and go up 2-0 in the matchup.

Tyrese Haliburton should be good to go despite being listed as questionable with back spasms. He has struggled at times in games so the injury is real, but it’s unlikely to actually sideline him. Knicks big man Mitchell Robinson is expected to miss 6-8 weeks after suffering a stress injury in his ankle.

The Knicks are 4.5-point favorites according to DraftKings Sportsbook with the total sitting at 220. New York is -185 on the moneyline while Indiana is +154.

Pacers vs. Knicks, 8 p.m. ET

Pick ATS: Knicks -4.5

Both teams were excellent offensively in Game 1 and the Pacers actually had a chance late to make things interesting but the Knicks ultimately made enough plays to secure the win. New York’s rotation is much tighter than Indiana’s, which could lead to problems for the Knicks if they do get into foul trouble. Now that there’s some familiarity, I don’t think Indiana’s offense will have as much success in Game 2 as it did in Game 1.

The difference in this series right now is the point guard play for both teams. Haliburton was a non-factor in Game 1, registering just six points on six shots. Even though he had eight assists and four steals, he had some lapses late. Meanwhile, his counterpart Jalen Brunson continues to make history. Brunson logged 43 points and six assists in 44 minutes to carry the Knicks to a win. I don’t see him, or his teammates, slowing down tonight. Give me the Knicks to cover in Game 2 and take a 2-0 series lead.

Over/Under: Under 220

Despite the first game going well over this number, I’m backing the under for Game 2. Teams tend to make adjustments after feeling out the opponent, and Game 1 was actually trending towards the under before a massive second half from both squads. The Pacers have been an inconsistent bunch on the road when it comes to scoring, while the Knicks are a few fouls here and there away from having big issues with their rotation. There’s a delicate balance to navigate for both sides but I think New York’s defense has been more consistent in the playoffs. I’ll take the home side to put the clamps on in Game 2 and keep this total under 220.