Five takeaways from the Knicks' confident win against Indiana

On Friday night, the New York Knicks (1-1) rebounded in spectacular fashion, defeating the Indiana Pacers 123-98 in front of a rousing crowd at Madison Square Garden. After an opening game against the Celtics that featured 29 throws and kicks, the Knicks came back roaring – especially with their highest KAT. Here are five takeaways from the emphatic victory.

The lockdown defense was back – and better than last year

If defense wins championships, the Knicks have just sent a loud message to the league. After the defensive debacle against Boston in which they allowed a record-breaking 29 three-pointers, New York cracked down on the Pacers' shooters. Indiana struggled mightily from beyond the arc, making a dismal 3 of 30 three-point shots. The Knicks' perimeter defense was relentless, shutting down shooters and disrupting the Pacers' rhythm throughout the game. That's the improved intensity we expected from our recently needed wingers OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges, and neither was disappointed as the Indiana starting backfield came up with two points – and a goose egg for pesky barker Tyrese Haliburton.

Everyone wins when everyone scores

Who needs a lone superstar when you've got a whole squad ready to drop anything? Jalen Brunson led the attack with 26 points and carved up the Pacers' defense with ease. But he wasn't alone – newcomers Karl-Anthony Towns and Bridges each scored 21 points in their debuts at Madison Square Garden. This balanced offensive attack created excitement for Indiana and showed the potential of the Knicks squad. With multiple players firing on all cylinders, this team will terrorize the league.

It was a relief to see Towns play so well since Julius Randle had just given Timberwolves fans a lot to cheer about.

The electric garden

There's no place like home, especially when it's the mecca of basketball. The fans gave Towns and Bridges a warm welcome and responded with spectacular home debuts. Every dunk, every steal and every three-pointer was met with deafening cheers. The Garden crowd is undeniably a sixth man when the Knicks get rolling. Do you think KAT and Mikal enjoyed basking in the glow of around 20,000 enthusiastic fans? That's what we do.

Turn defense into offense

The potent Pacers scored fewer than 100 points in just three games last season. Last night the Knicks held them to 98.

The Knicks didn't just stop the Pacers – they immediately turned their mistakes into attacks. New York capitalized on Indiana's 14 turnovers and scored a whopping 29 points on errors. New York also controlled the glass and was 10 points faster than Indiana, and best of all, every starter had a defensive rating of 106 or lower.

New York was quick to capitalize on the opportunities, rushing the ball in transition and catching the Pacers wrong-footed. This ability to flip the script from defense to fast-paced offense gives the Knicks' offense an added dimension that we didn't see enough of last season.

Resilience and team spirit

Coach Tom Thibodeau couldn't have been prouder. After a tough loss early in the season, the Knicks showed grit and determination to bounce back. Thibodeau praised his team's fight and resilience and emphasized the strong locker room mentality that has been built. This team doesn't just play together; they fight together. We were concerned that trading Donte DiVincenzo could have a negative impact on team chemistry. If last night's game is any indication, the team's performance is fine.

The Knicks' victory over the Pacers was more than just fun – it was a statement that set the bar high. With a stifling defense, balanced scoring chances and electric energy on the home pitch, they have now shown that they can dominate both sides when focused. Feel free to be optimistic; If they maintain this level of play, there is no telling how far they can go. See you at the parade?