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Knicks and Pacers Rivalry Reignites in 2025 Eastern Conference Finals

Game 1 tips off at Madison Square Garden as both teams aim to end decades-long NBA Finals droughts.

NDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - NOVEMBER 10: Tyrese Haliburton #0 of the Indiana Pacers dribbles against Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on November 10, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
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Pascal Siakam #43 of the Indiana Pacers takes a shot during the first half against the New York Knicks at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on February 11, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Overview

  • The Knicks and Pacers meet in the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2000, renewing a rivalry that dates back to the 1990s.
  • New York enters the series with a revamped and healthier roster, including key acquisitions Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges.
  • Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton invited Hans Perez, a Pacers fan harassed by Knicks supporters in New York, to Game 4 in Indiana as a goodwill gesture.
  • The series highlights contrasting point guard styles, with Jalen Brunson leading the Knicks' methodical offense and Haliburton driving Indiana's fast-paced attack.
  • Both franchises seek to end long-standing postseason droughts, with the Knicks last reaching the NBA Finals in 1999 and the Pacers in 2000.