Why this doesn't look like end of Knicks-Pacers rivalry
Share and Follow

INDIANAPOLIS — From 1993 through 2000, the Knicks and Pacers met different times in the postseason.

On three occasions, the two teams decided the Eastern Conference’s champion.

History is starting to repeat itself three decades later.

The longtime rivals met in a seven-game, Eastern Conference semifinal series a year ago.

This May, they are both back in the Eastern Conference finals, after pulling off second-round upsets.

While last year’s series went the distance, this version has been more entertaining so far, three games determined by six points or less.

Each team has blown a big lead. All three contests have been up for grabs in the final minute.

It is reminiscent of the 90’s.

Both teams are expected to remain competitive in the long term, as they are guided by talented point guards in their prime – Jalen Brunson for the Knicks and Tyrese Haliburton for the Pacers.

“It’s competitive. Look, there’s a lot of history that goes back a lot of years,” Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said ahead of Tuesday night’s Game 4 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. “When I was an assistant here I think we played them three years in a row [in the playoffs]. It’s great competition. We have a high level of respect for how they compete, and their fan base, you play at the Garden, it’s one of the ultimate environments. And we have one of the ultimate environments here. It’s always really good competition. … It’s a great series. There’s a lot going on. But we’re trying to stay focused on the process that works for us the best, and it’s not an easy process and the Knicks certainly aren’t an easy opponent.”

The Knicks’ core of Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, Miles McBride and Mitchell Robinson are all under contract through next season and nobody is older than 28.

Only Robinson and Bridges are free agents after next year. Pacer stars Haliburton and Pascal Siakam are locked up for the foreseeable future, as are key role players Andrew Nembhard and Aaron Nesmith.

“We’re still a young team,” Carlisle said. “There’s growth happening all the time.”

ESPN insider Shams Charania believes the Pacers are capable of getting even better.

“They’re turning into a destination [for players],” Charania said recently on ESPN. “That’s a big statement. Players look at Tyrese Haliburton, look at Pascal Siakam, look at what the front office has done. They’ve been so good at identifying ‘dogs’ — identifying players they know want to win and want to compete.”

The Celtics could take a step back next year, with Jayson Tatum’s status unclear following his torn Achilles tendon injury. There are young teams on the rise, like the Pistons and Magic.

The Cavaliers figure to be in the mix after winning 64 games, but falling in five to the Pacers in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

The rest of the conference better get used to seeing the Knicks and the Pacers battle it out in the playoffs.

It’s hard to see either falling off too much, considering their projected continuity and youth.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Who Jets, Giants need to watch as College Football Playoff unfolds

Key College Football Players the Jets and Giants Should Scout During Playoffs

This weekend’s NFL action has positioned the Giants and the Jets in…
$400,000 worth of lobster stolen on way to Costco stores

Thieves Make Off with $400K in Lobsters Destined for Costco Shelves

The logistics firm tasked with securing a driver for the delivery suspects…
Stephen Colbert's reason to 'slip into the body' of Donald Trump

Stephen Colbert Reveals the Surprising Motivation Behind His Donald Trump Impersonation

Stephen Colbert, known for his sharp wit and ongoing sparring with President…
Missing child found at Humboldt Park, Chicago home after disappearing more than 7 years ago; sibling, mother arrested

Juveniles Arrested Following Major Disruption at Louis Joliet Mall: Police Report

JOLIET, Ill. (WLS) — A chaotic scene unfolded at the Louis Joliet…
Trump vows to 'knock the hell out of' Iran if nuclear program is rebuilt again after high-stakes meeting

Trump Pledges Aggressive Response to Iran’s Nuclear Ambitions Post Critical Diplomatic Meeting

President Donald Trump announced on Monday that the United States, in collaboration…
Russia says Ukraine peace talks 'proceeding constructively,' as Kremlin launches deadly strike on Odesa

Zelenskyy Refutes Russian Allegations of Ukrainian Strike on Putin’s Residence

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed accusations from top Kremlin officials on Monday,…
Jacksonville police investigating shooting in Pinecrest neighborhood off Normandy Boulevard

Jacksonville Police Probe Pinecrest Neighborhood Shooting Near Normandy Boulevard: Latest Updates

A Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department spokesperson reported that an adult sustained life-threatening…
How William and Kate are 'preparing' Prince George for his unique role

William and Kate Strategically Prepare Prince George for His Future Role

The children of the Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Catherine,…