TNT analyst Stan Van Gundy voiced strong criticism of the New York Knicks’ defensive performance in their Game 1 loss to the Indiana Pacers. After rewatching the game, Van Gundy said the Knicks’ defense appeared even “softer” and more error-prone than it did in real time.
He highlighted poor pick-and-roll coverages, miscommunications on screens, and weak switching, especially during Aaron Nesmith’s late-game shooting spree. Van Gundy emphasized that the Knicks must be more aggressive and communicative on defense going forward.
Despite the defensive lapses, Van Gundy expressed confidence that Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau would rally the team for Game 2. He noted that at this stage in the playoffs, a hangover from one loss is unlikely to linger, especially under a coach like Thibodeau. According to Van Gundy, cleaning up coverage mistakes and improving perimeter defense will be critical, particularly against a Pacers team that exploited those weaknesses with ease in the closing minutes of regulation and overtime.
Contrasting Guard Styles, Defensive Errors, and Indiana’s Strategy to Wear Knicks Down
Van Gundy broke down the stylistic differences between Tyrese Haliburton and Jalen Brunson, praising both while emphasizing their contrasting approaches. Haliburton is known for quick decisions and sharing the ball, while Brunson is a ball-dominant player, similar to James Harden in terms of controlling possession and creating shots. These divergent styles shape how their respective teams operate on offense—Indiana with pace and movement, New York with methodical execution.
Stan Van Gundy Blasts Knicks’ Defense, Urges Fix Before Pacers Gain More GroundObi Toppin’s game-sealing dunk in overtime was another focal point of Van Gundy’s analysis. He was puzzled by the Knicks’ defensive approach on the play, especially Mitchell Robinson’s lack of impact on the pick-and-roll. Van Gundy considered the breakdowns entirely preventable and indicative of poor communication and execution. He emphasized that such errors are unacceptable, especially in a tightly contested playoff game.
Van Gundy explained Indiana’s long-term strategy to exhaust the Knicks, particularly Jalen Brunson, over the course of a series. The Pacers aim to use their depth and full-court pressure to gradually wear down New York’s core players. Despite giving up a high number of paint points and free throws, Indiana appears content with that trade-off if it leads to fatigue and diminished effectiveness from the Knicks’ stars in later games.
Van Gundy Stands by Fan Remarks, Highlights Missed Call, Praises Knicks’ Roster Moves
Addressing past remarks, Van Gundy doubled down on his claim that Knicks fans are “front-runners,” clarifying that while passionate, they tend to boo the team when things go wrong. He contrasted them with Indiana fans, who he said are more likely to rally behind their team during adversity. Van Gundy acknowledged the energy of the Madison Square Garden crowd but stood by his broader point about fan behavior under pressure.
Van Gundy also pointed to a controversial non-call in overtime that he believes significantly impacted the game. A clear goaltend by Indiana was not called, and instead of the Knicks taking a six-point lead, the Pacers scored a pivotal three-pointer on the ensuing possession. Van Gundy criticized the officials for not calling it, which prevented a review, calling it a major missed opportunity in a tightly contested playoff clash.
Finally, Van Gundy praised Knicks executive Leon Rose for assembling a competitive and well-balanced roster. He singled out the signing of Jalen Brunson as one of the best value acquisitions in recent memory and defended recent trades for Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges. He acknowledged fan skepticism but maintained that the roster gives New York a legitimate shot at winning. He also appreciated the dramatic and nostalgic angle of Reggie Miller calling the Knicks-Pacers series for TNT, calling it “great theater.”
