Germantas Kneita
The New York Knicks were able to extend the series in Game 5 at home but now will have a huge task of getting of trying to achieve the same result on the road. The Indiana Pacers could not get going offensively the last time out but now being back in front of their own fans, will be confident they can bounce back. If they slip up once more, they will be the ones with a daunting task, having to go on the road for a Game 7. You can follow tonight’s action live on TNT.
You can check out our NBA Playoff previews here. But for now, take a look at my Knicks/Pacers first basket best bet.
Knicks vs Pacers first basket best bet: Jalen Brunson (+425)
Odds available at bet365 at time of publishing.
Mitchell Robinson has dominated the opening tip against Myles Turner so far this series. Since moving into the starting lineup, he has helped the Knicks gain the opening possession in each of the last 3 games. He is simply a more explosive athlete than Turner, and with the centers being similarly sized, this advantage should be enough to help him come out on top once more. Even if Turner is somehow able to turn the tables, the Knicks are coming into this game having held the Pacers to 40.5% shooting from the field. They should remain confident that they can continue to get stops in this one.
Jalen Brunson has taken advantage of the Knicks having the opening possession, going on to make the opening basket in 2 of the last 3 games. With the Knicks in a desperate position in Game 5, the Knicks star took matters into his own hands early, making the opening 3 shots for the game. Now being on the road, expect him to continue leading by example here. Brunson has scored at least 30 points in 4 of the 5 games and is making 51.4% of his field goal attempts. He continues to dominate against Andrew Nembhard and it’s a matchup they will continue to exploit. Brunson should ensure the Knicks get off to a strong start here.
