Tyrese Haliburton’s MVP-like domination in the postseason came crashing down in Game 5. This three-pointer led to the Indiana Pacers’ embarrassing 111-94 loss to the New York Knicks. Haliburton enjoyed a Game 4 for the ages, notching 32 points and 15 assists and 12 rebounds with zero turnovers. In the back-to-back’s finale, things went awry for the 24-year-old, scoring just eight points while handing out six assists and grabbing two boards.
Indiana’s loss snapped their postseason low point total, as the home team shot just 40.5% from the floor. Arguably the most significant factor that sealed this outcome was Haliburton’s failure to repeat his past success. He said he was disappointed with his execution and knows he has to find ways to be better.
“Rough night for me,” Haliburton said. “I’ve got to be better setting the tone, getting downhill. I feel like I didn’t do a great job of that but I’ll watch the film.”
In Game 4, Haliburton prepared to make a name for himself. Most notably, he was the first player since turnovers began being tracked beginning with 1977-78 season to record a postseason triple-double with at least 30 points, 15 assists and 10 rebounds. His historic playmaking feat cemented his ability and all-around talent as a scrappy playmaker. The way he shot in Game 5 couldn’t do a better job showcasing the catch-22 that is so often the world of playoff basketball.
Haliburton’s issues were most pronounced from the jump as he saw much tougher defensive looks at the hands of the Knicks. His scoring output and overall contributions both dropped off a cliff, just like the fortunes of the team itself. The Pacers never got into a groove. The shock of this upsetting loss is certainly a blow, but it’s an unfortunate win-or-go-home situation for them in the playoffs.
“But I’ve got to be better and I will be better in Game 6,” Haliburton added, projecting confidence despite the setback.
The Pacers are underdogs heading into Game 6, but have risen to the occasion all series long. Haliburton needs to heal fast. His performance will be key for the team as they look to find their groove again in the tight series against the Knicks. His prior career has shown the kind of impact he can make when he’s firing on all cylinders.
