Tyrese Haliburton addressed his performance in Game 5 after the Indiana Pacers suffered a disappointing 111-94 defeat to the New York Knicks, acknowledging the need for improvement as the team prepares for Game 6. Despite the loss, Haliburton emphasized that there is “no need to panic,” underlining the resilience of the team. “We’re a resilient group,” he stated. “We always want to respond when things don’t go well after a game like that.”
This setback didn’t alter the fact that the Pacers still lead the series 3-2, with Game 6 scheduled for Saturday night in Indianapolis. The team struggled offensively, failing to lead at any point in Game 5—a game where they recorded their lowest point total of the postseason. Haliburton, who had a standout 4th game, managed only eight points with six assists, marking his least effective outing with just seven attempts at the basket. The starting lineup combined for only 37 points, and the team turned the ball over 20 times, further hampering their offensive efforts.
Coach Rick Carlisle recognized the team’s lack of intensity and focus, stating, “To start the game, we just didn’t have the right level of force, the right level of attitude necessary in this environment.” The Pacers, however, remain optimistic as they look to regroup.
Bennedict Mathurin led the Pacers in scoring with 23 points off the bench, while Pascal Siakam contributed 15 points. Despite the disappointing loss, Haliburton is determined to bounce back in Game 6, stressing the importance of pacing and teamwork, and adding, “This was a rough showing for us tonight. So we’ll watch the film, see where we can get better and be great.”
Forward Aaron Nesmith provided a blunt assessment of the team’s need to regain their intensity, pointing out that losses can serve as a learning opportunity. Siakam also reinforced a positive outlook, stating that they are ready to return home and demonstrate their capabilities. “You’re going to have bad games,” he said, reflecting on the nature of the playoffs. “It is just all about us, man.”
The Pacers’ historic tendency to bounce back after losses suggests a promising chance for recovery in Game 6, especially in front of their home crowd. The upcoming game will be crucial as the Pacers aim to secure a spot in the next round of the playoffs.