The New York Knicks have renewed an old time rivalry with the Indiana Pacers. This epic rivalry brings back so many memories going back to the 90s. This includes Game 1 of the 1995 playoff series between the Knicks and the Pacers in which Reggie Miller scored 8 points in 8.9 seconds to bury New York and his nemesis Spike Lee. That game ultimately earned Miller the nickname of “The Knick killer.” You can also point out the 1999 playoff series and Larry Johnson’s famous 4-point play in the 1999 playoff series. This current playoff matchup is sure to add another chapter to this exciting rivalry.
In Game 1 the Pacers simply outplayed the Knicks at Madison Square Garden. The Pacers are one of the most physical teams in the NBA and the team displayed their play frustrating Carmelo Anthony and the rest of the gang. Anthony scored 27 points shooting10 for 28 from the field. Led by small forward Paul George and Roy Hibbert, the Pacers took home court advantage from the Knicks winning 102-95. In Game 2, the Knicks appeared to have gotten their mojo back and Anthony’s game came back with a vengeance scoring 32 points, shooting 13 for 26 from the field as the Knicks evened the series with the Pacers winning 105-79.
Both teams will be coming off a long layoff as the series shifts to Indiana. The layoff may benefit the Knicks more with Anthony being able to get extra rest. Melo has been dealing with a shoulder injury he suffered against the Celtics. “Our defensive intensity has to match theirs, and we definitely have to be physical with them” Anthony said. It is sure to be a rocking crowd in Indiana for game 3. The Knicks may get some well-needed help as Amar’e Stoudemire, who has been out for nearly 2 month with a knee injury, is expected to come off the bench. Barring any setbacks, Stoudemire should help take the scoring load off of Anthony and J.R. Smith. The Knicks look to take a commanding 2-1 series lead, but it will not be a walk in the park for them to get it done.
Sports Notes: (Basketball) The Knicks head to Indiana on Saturday night to play the Indiana Pacers. (Series tied 1-1). (Baseball): The Mets begin a 3-game series against the Pittsburg Pirates. The Yankees finish their Interleague matchup with the Colorado Rockies. The team will then head to Kansas City to play the Royals.