In Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals between the Indiana Pacers vs New York Knicks, Haliburton delivered a performance for the ages, leading Indiana to a 130–121 win and a commanding 3–1 series lead. But this wasn’t just another clutch outing—it was historic.
Haliburton’s Triple-Double Sets NBA Record
Haliburton racked up 32 points, 15 assists, 12 rebounds, 4 steals—and zero turnovers. Yes, zero. According to ESPN, he’s now the first player in NBA playoff history to record a triple-double of at least 30 points, 15 assists, and 10 rebounds without a single turnover. Let that sink in.
For a player who was questionable due to an ankle tweak just days prior, his response was nothing short of legendary. Haliburton didn’t just control the game—he orchestrated it like a maestro, dictating tempo, finding open teammates, and knocking down key buckets when it mattered most.
Fast Start Sets the Tone
From the jump, Indiana meant business. Behind Aaron Nesmith’s early perimeter shooting and Haliburton’s aggressive playmaking, the Pacers exploded for 43 first-quarter points, taking an 8-point lead over the Knicks.
New York, however, wouldn’t roll over. Karl-Anthony Towns (24 points, 12 rebounds) and Jalen Brunson (31 points) kept things tight, closing the first half at 69–64 in favor of Indiana. Both teams shot over 50% from the field in the opening half, creating a track meet atmosphere more reminiscent of the All-Star Game than a grind-it-out playoff slugfest.
Knicks Push Back, But Pacers Answer
The third quarter began with Indiana stretching their lead to double digits, exploiting Knicks turnovers and defensive lapses. Brunson, as always, fought back valiantly—drawing fouls, scoring tough buckets, and trimming the lead to five on multiple occasions.
Yet every time New York closed the gap, someone in blue and gold responded. Whether it was Siakam’s mid-range jumper, Mathurin’s spark off the bench (20 points), or Obi Toppin’s crucial three-pointer in the final minute, the Pacers always had an answer.
A Game of Momentum—Until Haliburton Took Over
Late in the fourth quarter, the Knicks mounted one final charge. Mikal Bridges nailed back-to-back threes to cut the deficit to six. But with under two minutes remaining, Haliburton snagged a key rebound to officially complete his triple-double.
Then came the dagger: a Haliburton assist to Toppin, who drilled a three with 46 seconds left. Game. Set. Match.
What This Means for the Series
With the series now 3–1, the Knicks are on the brink of elimination. Despite Brunson’s continued brilliance and Towns’ inside presence, New York’s margin for error is nonexistent. Game 5 shifts back to Madison Square Garden, and for the Knicks, it’s all or nothing.
Meanwhile, the Pacers are one win away from their first NBA Finals appearance since 2000. Head coach Rick Carlisle downplayed the historical significance, stating, “We’re just on day 7 of a 13-day war.” But deep down, Indiana fans know—they’re closer than ever.
Key Stats – Game 4 at a Glance
| Category | Pacers | Knicks |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 130 | 121 |
| Top Scorer | Haliburton (32 pts) | Brunson (31 pts) |
| Rebounds Leader | Haliburton (12) | Towns (12) |
| Assists Leader | Haliburton (15) | Brunson (7) |
| Team 3PT % | 42.3% | 38.7% |
| Turnovers | 8 | 13 |
FAQs
He scored 32 points, along with 15 assists and 12 rebounds—plus zero turnovers.
The Pacers lead the series 3–1 after Game 4.
No, Tyrese Haliburton is the first player in NBA history to achieve that feat.
Game 5 is scheduled for May 30, 2025, at Madison Square Garden in New York.
Pascal Siakam scored 30 points for Indiana; Brunson had 31 for New York.
The Indiana Pacers last made the Finals in the year 2000.
Conclusion
The Indiana Pacers vs New York Knicks Game 4 wasn’t just pivotal—it was historic. Tyrese Haliburton etched his name into playoff lore, not just for his stat line, but for the poise, leadership, and control he displayed on the biggest stage.
Game 5 is next. For the Knicks, it’s win or go home. For the Pacers, it’s a chance to punch a ticket to the Finals.
Basketball fans, buckle up. This series just got epic.
