Knicks and Pacers to Renew Historic Rivalry in Eastern Conference Showdown

Knicks and Pacers to Renew Historic Rivalry in Eastern Conference Showdown

The Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks are set to clash in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals this Wednesday night at Madison Square Garden. This matchup adds another chapter to their storied playoff history, marked by intense competition and dramatic moments.

In an era spanning from 1993 to 2000, the Knicks and Pacers faced each other in the playoffs six times. Each series featured memorable confrontations that showcased the animosity between these two teams, captivating fans in the process.

Here, we explore some of the most iconic moments from their long-standing rivalry, characterized by fierce competition and unforgettable performances.

The Headbutt That Sparked a Rivalry

The rivalry intensified during the 1993 NBA playoffs when the Knicks held a commanding 2-0 series lead over the Pacers in the first round. Tensions peaked in Game 3, where Knicks star guard John Starks exchanged words with Reggie Miller following a score. This back-and-forth culminated in Starks headbutting Miller, leading to his ejection from the game.

The Pacers seized the opportunity to win Game 3, but the Knicks bounced back, claiming Game 4 and ultimately the series. The headbutt incident became a symbolic moment, laying the groundwork for the intense rivalry that would follow.

The 1994 Eastern Conference Finals

In 1994, the two teams met again in the Eastern Conference finals, this time with even higher stakes. The Knicks aimed to take a decisive 3-2 lead in Game 5, leading 70-58 in the third quarter. However, Reggie Miller had other plans.

During the fourth quarter, Miller scored 25 of his 39 points, electrifying the crowd with his performance. He engaged in a memorable feud with Knicks superfan Spike Lee, culminating in Miller’s infamous choke gesture that reverberated through the sports world.

Although the Pacers triumphed in Game 5, they could not maintain their momentum. The Knicks rallied back to win the series in seven games, advancing to the NBA Finals.

A Legendary Comeback

In 1995, the tension between the two teams continued with another playoff matchup in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Miller, again at the forefront of the rivalry, delivered one of the greatest comebacks in NBA playoff history during Game 1.

With the Knicks leading 105-99 and only 16 seconds remaining, Miller took control. He drained a three-pointer before stealing the Knicks’ inbound pass. Miller then hit another three-pointer and was fouled after grabbing a rebound from a missed Knicks shot.

At the free-throw line, he calmly sank both shots, giving the Pacers an astonishing 107-105 victory. This thrilling finish exemplified not just the players’ talent but also the high stakes of these playoff encounters. The series went to seven games, with the Pacers ultimately moving on to the Eastern Conference finals.

The Shift in Momentum

The rivalry continued to evolve, with the teams meeting again in the 1998 Eastern Conference semifinals. However, the Knicks faced significant challenges due to star player Patrick Ewing’s wrist injury. The Pacers, seen as heavy favorites, defeated the Knicks in five games, further intensifying the rivalry.

Yet, in a surprising turn of events, the two teams met again in the 1999 Eastern Conference finals. The Knicks overcame the odds, winning the series in six games. A highlight came when Allan Houston delivered an iconic shot in Game 3. With the Pacers leading 91-88 and only six seconds left, Houston hit a crucial three-pointer while drawing a foul. He completed a four-point play, securing a 92-91 lead that marked a significant moment in Knicks history.

2000 Playoff Rematch and New Faces

The Pacers gained revenge in the 2000 Eastern Conference finals, winning the series in six games and closing the chapter on the 1999 defeat. Soon after, the rivalry took a backseat, and the two teams would not meet again in the playoffs until 2013.

This time, the stakes were different, with new star players stepping onto the stage. The Pacers, led by Paul George, faced off against Carmelo Anthony’s Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals, with the Pacers prevailing in six games.

Fast forward to the recent playoffs, where the rivalry was reignited once again. In the 2022 Eastern Conference semifinals, the Pacers faced a Knicks team plagued by injuries. The Pacers delivered a stunning performance, shooting a record-breaking 67.1% from the field in Game 7, securing a 130-109 victory. This marked another era in the storied rivalry, showcasing the evolution of both franchises.

Looking Ahead

Overall, the history between the Knicks and the Pacers depicts a saga of rivalry characterized by emotional games and unforgettable moments. Currently, the Pacers hold a 5-3 advantage in playoff series against the Knicks, further solidifying their prominence in this longstanding competition.

As Game 1 approaches, fans eagerly anticipate what this next chapter will bring in the ongoing saga of one of the NBA’s most iconic rivalries.