NBA Best Bets Today: Expert NBA Betting Picks for 05/31/2025

The Knicks have shown impressive road form in these playoffs, going 6-2 away from Madison Square Garden, which gives them a fighting chance in this elimination game in Indianapolis.

New York's defense finally found answers for the Pacers' high-octane offense in Game 5, limiting them to just 94 points and forcing 20 turnovers.

Mitchell Robinson's insertion into the starting lineup has given the Knicks a rim protector who disrupts Indiana's offensive flow, while the extended bench rotation (now 4 deep) has kept starters fresher for closing time.

Jalen Brunson remains the consistent offensive force for New York, scoring 30+ points in four of five games this series while shooting an efficient 51.4% from the field against Andrew Nembhard's defensive matchup.

Multiple expert sources have identified value in taking the Knicks getting points, especially considering the pressure is on the Pacers to close out at home rather than face a Game 7 in New York.

Brunson has been the offensive engine for the Knicks throughout this series, averaging 30.1 points per game while scoring 30+ in four of the five contests against Indiana.

The Pacers have struggled to contain Brunson, who's shooting an impressive 51.4% from the field in the series, consistently finding ways to create his own shot against Nembhard's defense.

With New York facing elimination, expect Brunson to take an even larger share of the offensive load as he's done throughout the playoffs when the Knicks have needed him most.

The point guard has been remarkably consistent, producing at a high level regardless of venue, and has shown no signs of slowing down despite the physical toll of playoff basketball.

As the primary ball-handler who plays nearly 38 minutes per game, Brunson will have plenty of opportunities to hit the 30-point mark again, especially in this win-or-go-home scenario.

The Knicks have found defensive success by slowing the pace and disrupting the Pacers' offensive flow, as evidenced by holding Indiana to just 94 points in Game 5.

Mitchell Robinson's increased role has added rim protection that's forcing the Pacers into tougher shots and more turnovers, with Indiana committing 20 giveaways last game.

Playoff intensity typically increases in elimination games, with defenses tightening and possessions becoming more valuable – both factors that favor the under.

The Knicks are allowing just 108.6 points per game in the playoffs while shooting 44.9% from the field, suggesting they can continue to keep the Pacers below their season average.

With New York's strategy clearly focused on controlling tempo and Indiana feeling the pressure to close out the series, expect a more methodical, half-court game that stays under the total.