Knicks Edge Pacers 121-117 in Dramatic Game 1 Thriller
Sportsgrid Staff
Host · Writer
The New York Knicks captured game one of their second-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers in a thrilling contest at Madison Square Garden, ultimately winning 121-117. Despite the Knicks entering as 5.5-point favorites and the total over/under set at 217.5, the Pacers led most of the night and built a nine-point advantage by the middle of the third quarter.
The game shifted to a back-and-forth battle throughout the fourth quarter, setting up a tense finish. With just over 50 seconds remaining, a crucial kickball call on Aaron Nesmith gave possession back to the Knicks. Although later deemed incorrect in the two-minute report, the call couldn’t be overturned due to the league’s current review rules. Jalen Brunson and Donte DiVincenzo capitalized on the opportunity, with DiVincenzo sinking a three-pointer to put New York ahead 118-115.
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Indiana still had a chance to close the gap late, but Myles Turner was called for an illegal screen with 12 seconds remaining, a foul that DiVincenzo theatrically embellished to give the Knicks possession again.
Despite the loss, the Pacers covered as 5.5-point underdogs, and the game easily surpassed the over/under of 217.5. However, the final score didn’t capture the drama of the closing moments or the frustration stemming from controversial officiating decisions. The inability to review Nesmith’s kickball call stood out as a particularly glaring issue, especially given that other infractions like shot-clock violations or boundary line violations can be reviewed.
From the Pacers’ perspective, their bench delivered a commendable 46 points. However, Indiana’s strong performance throughout the first three quarters wasn’t enough, as tough officiating calls and clutch shooting by the Knicks turned the tide in the final moments. The Pacers now face a momentum shift heading into game two, knowing they will need to find ways to close out games against a resilient Knicks team that displayed its determination down the stretch.
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