, facing the hot Indiana Pacers, the New York Knicks played at a high level in the first game of the Eastern Conference Finals, but still lost in overtime with a score of 135 to 138. Center Karl-Anthony Towns played efficiently throughout the game, scoring 35 points and 12 rebounds, but he missed the key free throw in the final quarter, which became one of the turning points of the game, which is regrettable.

Towns was in excellent form in this game, playing aggressively on both offense and defense. He played 35 minutes in the game, made 11 of 17 shots, 4 of 8 three-pointers, 9 of 11 free throws, contributed 35 points, 12 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal and 1 block, and his plus-minus value was +9. Especially in the fourth quarter, facing the Pacers' relentless pursuit, Towns stepped forward and scored 13 points alone, responded many times at critical moments, and helped the team stabilize the situation several times.

However, the balance of the game quietly tilted at that moment. In the final period of regular time, the Knicks held a slight lead, and Towns stood at the free throw line, but missed the key shot and missed the opportunity to completely lock the score. The Pacers then tied the score in the counterattack and dragged the game into overtime, eventually achieving a stunning reversal.

After the game, Knicks coach Thibodeau said in an interview: "Towns played very well and supported the inside for us. But our decision-making and execution in the last few minutes need to be improved. This series is far from over."

Towns himself seemed a little disappointed when he was interviewed by the media after the game. He said: "I should have made that free throw. There is no excuse. In this kind of game, every detail determines the outcome. I will take responsibility."

This game not only caused the Knicks to lose their home-court advantage, but also made Towns' efficient data one of the representatives of "empty cuts". Although his personal performance was enough to be selected into the best team of the day, the team's defeat prevented his efforts from turning into victory.

The Knicks are currently trailing 0-1 in the series and will continue to play their next game at home. The team needs to regroup in a short period of time, and Towns must quickly step out of the shadows and continue to play a leadership role to help the team get back on track.