The upcoming series between the Knicks and Pacers is notable as it’s the fourth time these rivals face each other in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Here’s a quick look back at the first three encounters:
1994
Knicks Win Series, 4-3
This series was quite significant and really kicked off a heated rivalry between two top teams in the Eastern Conference. Remember the Reggie Miller Chalk Game during the 1995 Conference Semis? That added fuel to the fire. Back in ’94, the Knicks were favorites, especially since Michael Jordan was away from basketball. The Pacers, though, were causing some trouble for the top-seeded Hawks in the conference semi-finals.
The series evened out at two wins each after Miller had a standout Game 5, scoring 39 points while engaging in some playful banter with Knicks superfan Spike Lee. The Knicks, however, managed to rally, winning the crucial Game 7 thanks to an impressive performance from Patrick Ewing, who delivered 24 points, 22 rebounds, and 5 blocks, leading the Knicks to their first NBA Finals appearance since 1973.
1999
Knicks Win Series, 4-2
Entering this series, the Knicks were the heavy underdogs against the top-seeded Heat after a series of upsets. However, they made a statement right away by stealing Game 1 in Indiana, gaining home-court advantage. Unfortunately, Ewing got injured during Game 2 with a partial Achilles tear. But Game 3 had its moments, notably Larry Johnson hitting a legendary shot while being fouled by Antonio Davis.
In a thrilling conclusion, a four-point play gave the Knicks a one-point lead with just 5.7 seconds left in Game 5, securing a dramatic win. Heading into Game 6 with a narrow 3-2 lead, they faced yet another injury as Johnson sprained his knee. Alan Houston rose to the occasion, scoring 32 points to lead the Knicks through a packed series win. This actually marked the last time the Knicks closed a series at home before a recent Celtics defeat.
2000
Pacers Win Series, 4-2
The Pacers, with 56 wins that season, aimed for their first NBA Finals appearance. They eliminated the Knicks in six games, with the home team winning the first five matches. Indiana clinched the series at Madison Square Garden.
In a standout performance, Reggie Miller scored 34 points, including 17 in the final quarter, playing the villain once again at the Garden. This game also marked the end of Patrick Ewing’s time with the Knicks, as he was traded to the Seattle Supersonics in the offseason. The Pacers would eventually fall to the Lakers in the Finals.
