The NBA playoffs have always been a stage where stars cement their legacies and rivalries are born or rekindled. In the 2025 postseason, Pascal Siakam has emerged as the unexpected catalyst transforming the Pacers-Knicks matchup into must-watch basketball. His exceptional playoff performance has not only elevated Indiana’s championship aspirations but has breathed new life into a historic basketball rivalry.
Siakam’s Midseason Transformation
When the Indiana Pacers acquired Pascal Siakam from the Toronto Raptors in January, many questioned whether the midseason move would disrupt team chemistry. Instead, Siakam has seamlessly integrated into Indiana’s high-octane offense, averaging 24.3 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 5.2 assists since joining the team. His playoff numbers have been even more impressive, with his efficiency climbing to career-best levels.
“What makes Siakam so valuable is his versatility,” notes ESPN analyst Mike Schmitz. “He can initiate offense, finish in transition, create in the half-court, and defend multiple positions. That’s exactly what Indiana needed to complement Tyrese Haliburton.”
The Pacers’ front office deserves credit for recognizing how Siakam’s skill set would mesh with their existing core. His ability to thrive in transition while also creating in half-court settings has given Indiana the playoff-caliber offensive versatility they previously lacked.
Reigniting a Historic Rivalry
The Pacers-Knicks rivalry holds a special place in NBA lore, with the physical battles of the 1990s featuring Patrick Ewing, Reggie Miller, and John Starks still resonating with basketball fans. However, the matchup had lost some of its luster in recent years as both franchises cycled through rebuilding phases.
Siakam’s arrival has coincided with the rivalry’s renaissance. His battles with New York’s frontcourt have added a compelling new chapter to this storied matchup. The intensity of their current playoff series—featuring two overtime games and multiple technical fouls—has rekindled memories of the rivalry’s heyday.
“This series has everything,” says former Pacers star Reggie Miller, now a TNT analyst. “Star power, tactical adjustments, physical play, and genuine competitive animosity. Siakam has been the difference-maker that’s pushed this rivalry back into the national spotlight.”
Statistical Impact Beyond the Box Score
While Siakam’s traditional statistics are impressive, his advanced metrics reveal an even more significant impact. The Pacers’ offensive rating improves by 8.3 points per 100 possessions with Siakam on the floor during the playoffs, and their defensive rating improves by 4.1 points—making him one of just five players in the postseason with positive impacts exceeding four points on both ends.
His defensive versatility has been particularly crucial against New York’s multi-faceted attack. Siakam has spent time guarding everyone from Jalen Brunson to Julius Randle, allowing Indiana to maintain defensive integrity while navigating screens and switches.
“Pascal gives us defensive flexibility we simply didn’t have before,” explains Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle. “He can guard multiple positions, help protect the rim, and still get out in transition. That’s invaluable in a playoff setting.”
Championship Implications
With the series tied and heading to a decisive Game 7, Siakam’s performance will likely determine whether Indiana can advance to the Eastern Conference Finals. His playoff experience—including a championship run with Toronto in 2019—provides valuable leadership for a relatively young Pacers core.
Basketball analysts have taken notice, with several revising their championship projections based on Siakam’s elevated play. The winner of this series will face either Boston or Cleveland, with momentum potentially carrying them toward an NBA Finals appearance.
For Pacers fans, Siakam represents hope for the franchise’s first NBA Finals appearance since 2000. For basketball fans generally, his performance has delivered the gift of a revitalized classic rivalry, reminding us why the NBA playoffs remain one of sports’ most compelling spectacles.
As Game 7 approaches, all eyes will be on Pascal Siakam, the unexpected catalyst who has transformed both his team’s ceiling and a dormant rivalry through his exceptional playoff performance
