Pacers at Knicks Betting Guide: 3 NBA Player Props for Wednesday, May 8
The NBA Playoff Conference Semifinals are in full motion, but that means there are times when there is only one game on the schedule each day. Tonight, the Knicks try to win Game 2 at home to go up 2-0 in their series over the Pacers.
With only one matchup on the slate, what should bettors look for in this Knicks-Pacers game? We’ll have you covered with three prop bets for tonight. Best of luck, folks!
Isaiah Hartenstein UNDER 9.5 Rebounds (+126 at Caesars)
The Knicks got unfortunate news Monday night that their center Mitchell Robinson has suffered a stress fracture in his left ankle that will sideline him for the rest of the season. This leaves New York with just Hartenstein and Precious Achiuwa in the rotation.
With Robinson out, the rebounds line has been juiced to 9.5. Even with Hartenstein playing 30+ minutes, he has not come close to double-digit rebounds; only reaching the nine mark once this postseason. During the playoffs, the Knicks have focused on Josh Hart becoming the primary rebounder, averaging over 12 boards a game.
The 7’0 center will also be guarding Myles Turner, who plays around the perimeter more than most centers. This should give more rebounding opportunities for Hart and OG Anunoby. Hartenstein has also been subject to foul trouble during the playoffs. Look for Hart to get the majority of the rebounds tonight.
TJ McConnell OVER 10.5 Points (-105 at DraftKings)
They say the series doesn’t start until you win a road game, and Tyrese Haliburton only scored six points in Game 1. The Pacers could look to rely on their backup point guard for extra scoring.
McConnell has always been a pest for these New York Knicks. In Game 1 he broke out scoring 18 points in just 22 minutes, but that’s nothing new to the Knicks. In his last five games against New York, McConnell has averaged 14 points per game while hitting over his points line four times. Also, this postseason when playing over 20 minutes, McConnell has scored in the double figures each time.
The 32-year-old also matches up well with 6’1 point guard Jalen Brunson, who has struggled a bit on the defensive side at times. I expect McConnell to play more than 20 minutes tonight and clear 10.5 points.
Pascal Siakam UNDER 27.5 Points and Rebounds (-105 at Fanatics)
The Pacers traded with the Raptors for Siakam earlier this season to add to their already high-powered offense. The Knicks traded with the Raptors for OG Anunoby for some extra defense. With OG’s defense, it will be hard for Siakam to score.
In Game 1 of the series, Siakam was held to just 25 points and rebounds combined. In his first two games of the playoffs, Siakam cleared this line easily with just his points. In the last five games, he has taken a step back by taking less than 20 shots per game and recording less than double-digit rebounds.
With the matchup of Siakam and Anunoby, I’m expecting more from Myles Turner tonight. Look for Siakam to go under as it did in Game 1
Brett Alper
Sports Betting Contributor
Brett Alper is a devoted sports bettor trying to breakthrough in the sports gambling industry. He covers all sports but focuses mainly on the NFL, NBA, MLB and NASCAR. He has worked as a sports reporter/anchor since 2020. Brett graduated from the University of Kentucky with a B.A in broadcast journalism. You can find Brett on X at @TheRealAlper