The New York Knicks were left stunned and frustrated after a thrilling 138-135 overtime loss to the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. The turning point came when Tyrese Haliburton sank what he thought was a game-winning three-pointer at the buzzer, only for it to be ruled a two-pointer after a video review.
Haliburton initially celebrated with a gesture reminiscent of Reggie Miller’s infamous "choke" taunt towards Knicks fans during his playing days with the Pacers. Miller laughed at Haliburton’s celebration, saying he wouldn’t use it again if he knew it wasn’t going to count as three points.
"It was just one of those moments where you’re trying to get that win," Haliburton said. "I’m not thinking about anything else but getting that W."
Pacers’ Comeback
The Pacers trailed by 17 points with just under seven minutes left in regulation but managed to come back and tie the score at 127-127 at the end of four quarters. Aaron Nesmith played a crucial role in their comeback, scoring 30 points, grabbing six rebounds, and dishing out five assists.
- Nesmith hit multiple threes throughout the contest, including one deep shot from near half court that bounced off the rim twice before falling through the net.
- His clutch shooting helped set up Haliburton’s playmaking skills, which finished with 31 points and 11 assists.
"I think we’ve been working on our spacing all season," Nesmith said. "We’ve been trying to find ways to get me open shots like that."
Knicks’ Struggles
Karl-Anthony Towns called the loss "a tough pill" to swallow for his team. He acknowledged that the Knicks need more consistency defensively, which has been their biggest weakness all season long despite some great individual performances lately.
"We need more guys stepping up defensively," Towns said. "We can’t rely on one or two guys every night."
Towns finished with 33 points and eight rebounds for New York.
Haliburton added, “It’s not like I’m thinking about Reggie Miller or any other player when I’m celebrating.” Miller himself laughed off Haliburton’s gesture, joking, “If I knew it wasn’t going to be three (points), no way would I do it again.”
Coach’s Perspective
Indiana coach Rick Carlisle praised both teams’ resilience during the game.
“Both teams showed incredible toughness,” Carlisle said via phone call from home due to being under COVID protocol.
Pacers forward Bennedict Mathurin scored nine fourth-quarter points as part of Indiana’s comeback bid against New York.
The game showcased intense competition and highlighted the need for both teams to step up as they continue in the playoffs.
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