New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau emphasized team defense and resilience following Thursday’s 111-94 Game 5 victory over the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden.
Tyrese Haliburton, who erupted for 32 points in Game 4, was limited to just eight on 2-of-7 shooting, and Thibodeau credited both scheme and effort.
“I thought our guys were tied together and trying to make him work for everything,” Thibodeau told reporters postgame. “That’s what you have to do — fight to win every possession.”
Despite questions about tactical changes, Thibodeau downplayed any major adjustments on offense aimed at targeting Haliburton defensively.
“It’s basically the same,” he said. “Sometimes you have opportunities to attack different ways, but there wasn’t a big change.”
Karl-Anthony Towns set the tone early, posting 24 points and 13 rebounds, and Thibodeau highlighted the importance of his assertiveness.
“He was very aggressive, and I think that’s super important,” Thibodeau said. “Jalen as well. The first quarter set the tone for the game.”
Jalen Brunson’s 32-point effort marked his 21st career playoff game with at least 30 points, and Thibodeau noted how that intensity impacted the entire team.
“It’s been a hard-fought series,” he said. “The games have all been real close, one-possession games. Sometimes you don’t get the 50-50 plays, but you have to keep fighting and never give in.”
The Knicks also benefited from strong minutes off the bench, including Landry Shamet, whose name was chanted by the home crowd late in the game.
“Precious [Achiuwa] gave us good minutes,” Thibodeau noted. “He’s kept himself ready even without playing, and it hasn’t gone unnoticed. It was huge for us.”
Mitchell Robinson had a stretch where he registered two blocks, a steal, and an offensive rebound in one sequence, drawing praise for his execution.
“Just play to your strengths, cover up your weaknesses, and function as a group,” Thibodeau said.
New York forced 20 turnovers and limited Indiana to 40.5% shooting while winning the rebounding battle 45-40.
Thibodeau stressed that the collective effort — including from the second unit — was central to containing a potent Pacers offense.
“Everyone has to be tied together and on the same page,” he said.
Asked about minimizing live-ball turnovers from Josh Hart and others, Thibodeau emphasized simplicity.
“The first open man — hit him,” he said. “Oftentimes the intent is good, but we can’t try to thread the needle.”
Game 6 will be held in Indianapolis on Saturday, with the Knicks trailing 3-2 in the Eastern Conference Finals.
