Rick Carlisle Faces Intense Scrutiny as Pacers Fall to Knicks in Heated NBA Playoff Series
Criticism mounts over tactical decisions and officiating complaints as Indiana Pacers struggle against a formidable New York Knicks.
- Carlisle's decision to bench key player TJ McConnell in the final minutes of Game 2 draws widespread condemnation from fans and analysts.
- The Pacers coach also alleges a 'small market' bias in NBA officiating, submitting numerous clips for league review.
- Jalen Brunson's resilience and performance spotlight the Knicks' robust playoff run, overshadowing Pacers' strategic missteps.
- Despite Carlisle's controversies, the Knicks' consistent clutch play and strong team dynamics secure a 2-0 series lead.
- McConnell's benching seen as a pivotal misstep, with his absence correlating with significant scoring runs by the Knicks.
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