The Indiana Pacers defeated the Knicks to start the 2020-21 season.
With the expected starting lineup available, the Indiana Pacers SCORE. Domantas Sabonis and Malcolm Brogdon got off to fast starts and opened things up from the tip. Both players scored in double figures in the first quarter.
The Knicks caught fire to end the first half and carried a five-point lead into the break, thanks to a 20-point half from RJ Barrett. He finished with 26 after being shut down in the second half. Alec Burks also added 22 points off the bench for New York.
Indiana had a strong second half and pulled away early in the fourth quarter to seal the win. Myles Turner was a huge reason for the turnaround in the second half, finishing the night with 10 points and tying his career-high with eight blocks. He was also a team-best +20 on the night and was a difference-maker in the second half.
Domas was a problem all night for the Knicks, drawing fouls early and feasting under the rim. He racked up 32 points and 13 rebounds. His ability to win on the boards and finish through contact gave the Knicks fits and ended up with a career-best in points for Sabonis.
Brogdon and Victor Oladipo combined for 43 points, 12 assists, and 11 rebounds while also wreaking havoc on the defensive end. Active hands led to steals and transition buckets in the first half, which kept Indiana in the game despite the Knicks hitting tough shots.
Indiana did not get off to the start they may have wanted but the stars got hot and carried them to a big second half. Oladipo, Turner, Brogdon, and Turner picked up the slack as T.J. Warren struggled in his first action of the season.
Indiana travels to Chicago on Saturday, Dec. 26 for a visit with the Bulls. They have to get off to a better start and get out to an early lead if they want to be taken seriously this season.