Knicks force Game 6; Defeat Pacers 85-75

With the season on the line the New York Knicks defeated the Indiana Pacers 85-75.

From the start the Knicks were energized. That energy would get the Knicks better results tonight and would be the difference in them winning the game.

Tonight’s credit definitely goes to Mike Woodson who decided to play Chris Copeland more tonight. Copeland would play 19 minutes scoring a playoff career high 13 points. His energy and ability to score made his impact great. He was really important tonight and that should continue as the series shifts back to Indiana.

Other then the stellar play of Copeland, Carmelo Anthony played great. Anthony scored 28 points on 12 of 28 shooting. He had it going on with his jumper toward the latter part of this game. He continue to grimace in pain as his left shoulder bothered him, but that didn’t stop him. Tonight Anthony kept the consistent play up and that was a major influence tonight.

The rebounding battle was much more even tonight as the Pacers only won the battle 43-40. The rebounding leader for the first time in this series was Tyson Chandler. He played a much better game tonight and really held his own against Roy Hibbert. That battle between the two was limited due to fouls, but both really didn’t overly impact the game.

JR Smith bounced back with a very solid game as he scored 13 points off the bench including six rebounds. Smith has struggled and tonight he seemed to make it a priority to continue to shoot. He attacked the basket and made great jump shots. With his play in question Smith gave the Knicks a nice contribution off the bench. He provided energy early on and was a huge factor in this game.

Overall tonight’s performance was encouraging. With all of the Knicks offensive troubles, the play of Chris Copeland was a very good sign. He gives the Knicks that added offensive fire power that they’ve lacked in this series. Tonight he came in and knocked in some shots which spaced the floor for his teammate. Heading into another game, Copeland should see minutes, if not the Knicks will struggle.

This series will now go to a sixth game. Which will take place on May 18th at 8:00 PM on ESPN. The Pacers have a huge problem if George Hill is unable to go in that game. Hill missed tonight’s game with a concussion.

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