Pacers vs. Knicks Prediction: Game 1 of Eastern Conference Finals

For the first time since 2000, the Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks will meet in the Eastern Conference finals. Game 1 is set for 8 p.m. ET on Wednesday at the Madison Square Garden on TNT.

Both teams are coming off two of the biggest postseason upsets since 2000. The Knicks defeated the Boston Celtics as +550 series underdogs, while the Pacers were +425 before upsetting the Cleveland Cavaliers.

New York is -155 to reach the NBA Finals and a 4.5-point favorite in the ECF opener.

Here’s a look at the latest NBA odds for Pacers vs. Knicks and my prediction ahead of Wednesday’s Game 1 in the Eastern Conference finals:

Pacers vs. Knicks Odds: Game 1

• Pacers spread: +4.5
• Knicks spread: -4.5
• Total: 223.5

Pacers vs. Knicks Prediction: Game 1 Best Bet

Based on the updated NBA playoff odds, I’m taking the under on Jalen Brunson’s rebounds and assists combo line (11.5) as my best bet for Game 1 of the Pacers-Knicks battle in the Eastern Conference finals.

I like the Pacers’ chances in this series, starting in Game 1. But they don’t have a shot if they can’t slow down New York’s best player.

Brunson has averaged 28.8 points, 7.7 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game this postseason. I don’t see any reason to fade his scoring impact, though Indiana has been underrated defensively this year.

Brunson has only cleared this combo line four times in his 12 playoff games this year. He finished with nine-plus assists in three of those games.

While the Pacers love to share the rock, the Knicks have a system built around Brunson. That gives Indiana an advantage entering Game 1 before adjustments are made.

I project value on this line at -140 or better in a game where the Pacers should make things more difficult for Brunson.

Game 1 prediction: Jalen Brunson under 11.5 rebounds and assists (-130)

Pacers vs. Knicks Series Schedule

When Was the Last Time the Pacers Reached the NBA Finals?

The Pacers last reached the NBA Finals in 2000, losing in six games to the Los Angeles Lakers. It marks the only year that Indiana has won the East.

When Was the Last Time the Knicks Reached the NBA Finals?

The Knicks haven’t made it to the NBA Finals since 1999, when they lost to the San Antonio Spurs in five games. New York has won two championships in 46 playoff appearances.