Siakam averaged 6.4 rebounds in five games against the Cavaliers, with projections for Game 1 against the Knicks ranging from 7.8 to 8.8 rebounds due to increased possession opportunities.

Indiana performs well when Haliburton takes 18 or more shots, currently holding a 12-2 record in such games this year, and he is expected to make at least three 3-pointers in Game 1.

After the All-Star Break, Indiana ranked No. 3 in opponent 3-point attempt rate, allowing foes to take only 39.0% of their shots from deep while limiting them to a 34.5% success rate, which has continued into the postseason with the Bucks and Cavaliers shooting 33.6% against them.

Mitchell Robinson has been an effective bench player for the New York Knicks in the postseason, and he is expected to provide significant contributions in Game 1 against the Indiana Pacers, who have allowed the third-most rebounds, fourth-most points, and seventh-most paint points.

Tyrese Haliburton has not recorded a double-double in his last four games, despite achieving 17 double-doubles in his final 20 regular season games.

Jalen Brunson averages 28.8 points per game in the playoffs, predominantly scoring later in games, and has recorded at least eight first quarter points in only two of 12 playoff games and none in three regular season games against Indiana.