After winning two games on enemy ground, anyone would have assumed that the Pacers would continue their streak at home as well. However, home ground advantage did not pan out that well for Indiana as they lost 100-106. But at least the Pacers seemingly knew the reason why. Myles Turner said after the game, “We didn’t play fast enough. We built our brand and made our way getting up and down and being a fast-paced team, and we didn’t execute that way.”

Well, so were the Pacers complacent in their approach? Until the second quarter, Indiana led with 20 points, but the Knicks closed that deficit yet again. The NY bench rallied together to fuel a late-game surge. The Pacers’ troubles were compounded by the fact that twenty out of their 25 3-pointers never landed. Andrew Nembhard, Ben Sheppard, and Tony Bradley collectively recorded only 14 points and 10 rebounds. According to Coach Carlisle, “Aggression level has got to be better. Tempo’s got to be better. Defense has got to be better. Rebounding’s got to be better.”

With the Knicks looking to level the playing field, the Pacers need to rise to get their act together. Though NY made a historic comeback, the Pacers hold a record of 5-3 against them in playoff series. And maybe this loss may prove to be exactly what Indiana needed to ignite the fire in them. Now let’s find out which of our favorite Pacers faces we will see on the court tonight. As per ESPN, both Myles Turner and Andrew Nembhard will join the crew injury-free.

However, Aaron Nesmith is listed as questionable because of his turned ankle. Likewise, Isiah Jackson still remains out, suffering from a torn Achilles. Though Carlisle has his work cut out for him, the Pacers still maintain a lead. So, now the question is whether they will be able to maintain it.

Can the Pacers maintain their lead in WCF Game 4?

After defeating the Cavaliers, the No.1 seed, the Pacers surely have the ability to take this one home. Tyrese Haliburton has an average of 18.6 points per game this postseason, while Pascal Siakam has averaged 20.2 points per game. Even with Nesmith questionable, Indiana can make a comeback.  Here is the starting lineup Coach Carlisle could have on his mind:

On the other hand, the Knicks are ready to take on another game with a clean bill of health. With no injuries, Coach Thibodeau has his entire roster at his disposal. Here is how they can line up:

With Gainbridge Fieldhouse set to host its second ECF tonight, both teams have a lot to prove. Indiana must look to fire back at the Knicks to continue their record of zero back-to-back losses since March. Which team are you looking forward to winning?