Injuries and accumulated minutes are starting to weigh on the Knicks' organizations. The slap in Game 4 at Indiana, where all the seams burst, is a perfect example. But in addition to the fatigue specific to the New York team, there is also the pressure of the Pacers at play.
One of the symbols of this is the performances of Jalen Brunson. Excellent and skillful (36 points per game at 57% shooting success) at Madison Square Garden, the All-Star was tough in Indiana, with only 22 points on average at 37% shooting success and 18% shooting success. 3-pt.
“Brunson and Donte DiVincenzo are great players and when you defend on these players, you have to make their lives as difficult as possible. We want to continue to put energy defensively,” comments TJ McConnellwho continually puts pressure on the Knicks star. “It’s crucial. We must make him work as much as possible, expend as much energy as possible. He is a great player and we must continue our efforts to put pressure on him on all pitches. It's hard for him. »
Knicks out of breath against the pace of the Pacers?
The Pacers' desire to put rhythm and intensity on defense further exhausts the Knicks. Myles Turner feels it. “Yes, I think it weighs on them. Their starters play 40-45 minutes per match, and we make our players breathe and we can attack in waves. It’s definitely beneficial for us.”notes the pivot. “Going after them all-terrain, putting pressure, contesting, all that increases the pace of the match. This is our trademark and we will continue to do so. »
Will returning home allow Tom Thibodeau’s players to find their legs again? In any case, the Pacers, as Turner announced, do not intend to take their foot off the accelerator.
“We started the game well, playing with pressure, force and aggression,” insisted Aaron Nesmith after the victory in the fourth set to return to 2-2. “Our way of playing, with this pace, is difficult to follow. We have to continue to wear them out, to play our game. We will continue and continue. »
