The New York Knicks managed a remarkable comeback in Game 3, overturning a 20-point deficit to beat the Indiana Pacers, outscoring them 36-20 in the final quarter. Interestingly, they achieved this despite Jalen Brunson having a poor game, struggling with fouls and playing just 31 minutes off the bench. However, this scenario may not repeat in Game 4. Although the Pacers are favored by three points, betting on the Knicks seems like a smart move.
A key takeaway from Game 3 is the Pacers’ poor three-point shooting, hitting just 5 out of 25 attempts. For the second time in the playoffs (over 13 games), they shot worse from beyond the arc than their opponents, a pattern last seen in a loss against the Milwaukee Bucks. The Pacers aren’t usually an elite three-point shooting team; they ranked ninth in percentage and 21st in attempts during the regular season. Yet, in the playoffs, they have been the most prolific deep shooters, boasting a 39.6% rate—above 40% even in their disastrous 5-of-25 performance.
The question remains: will the Pacers continue to defy expectations with their deep shooting? Game 1 standout Aaron Nesmith, who shot 8-for-9 from three, was 3-for-3 in Game 3 before injuring his ankle. Pascal Siakam, hero of Game 2 with 39 points and 3-of-5 from deep, was just 0-for-1 from three in Game 3. The disparity between the regular season (82 games) and playoff (13 games) shooting trends is striking.
The Knicks adjusted their lineup in Game 3, starting Josh Hart alongside Mitchell Robinson and unexpectedly utilizing veterans Deron Wright and Landry Shamet from the bench, players who typically only play in blowout situations. The Knicks appear urgent, while the Pacers are desperate to keep their three-point shots falling.
Recommended pick: Knicks (+3) either lose or win by less than three points.
Jason McIntyre, a Fox Sports Betting analyst, also covers NFL and NBA drafts and founded The Big Lead website. Follow him on Twitter @jasonrmcintyre.
Fan Take: This game highlights how crucial three-point shooting is in playoff basketball and how momentum can swing dramatically even when star players struggle. For fans, it shows the unpredictability and excitement of the postseason, emphasizing that depth and tactical adjustments are just as important as star performances.
