Pacers and Knicks Renew Rivalry in Eastern Conference Finals

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks are set to face off in the Eastern Conference Finals, igniting one of the NBA’s most storied rivalries. The series begins on Sunday, with the Pacers aiming for their first NBA Finals appearance since the 1999-2000 season.

The Pacers come into this matchup with momentum, having won Game 2 in New York, propelled by a playoff career-high 39 points from forward Tyrese Haliburton. Haliburton’s performance showcased his potential as a rising star in the league.

Historically, the Pacers have shown strength when taking a 2-0 lead in a playoff series, with an impressive 9-0 record in such situations. On the other hand, the Knicks face a daunting statistic: they have never come back from an 0-2 deficit in a playoff series, with an official record of 0-14.

This year’s Eastern Conference Finals serve as a renewal of the fierce competition between the two teams, which has spanned decades. The rivalry reached new heights during the 1990s, marked by memorable playoff clashes and intense game moments. Previous encounters, including the notorious “Malice at the Palace” brawl, highlight the depth of animosity between these franchises.

The Pacers, who have not won a championship since joining the NBA from the ABA in 1976, are poised to make a significant roster decision this summer concerning franchise center Myles Turner, who will enter free agency. Turner, who averaged 15.6 points and 6.5 rebounds this season, is known for his shot-blocking abilities and three-point shooting, which has improved to 40% this year. His future will play a critical role in determining the team’s direction.

Nick’s owner James Dolan has also invested heavily in building a competitive roster, leading to a new confidence within the franchise. The Knicks recently signed star Jalen Brunson to a long-term, team-friendly deal. This financial flexibility could allow the team to enhance their roster further as they aim to challenge for a championship.

As the Pacers and Knicks prepare for Game 3, fans are eager to see which team will seize control of the series. The stakes could not be higher, as both franchises look to define their legacies and push toward an NBA Finals appearance.