INDIANAPOLIS — After a war of attrition, Indiana won the Mother’s Day Massacre.
In Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, the Pacers lost 121-89.
But just because they disrespected the Knicks doesn’t mean they disrespect the Knicks.
“It’s obviously great to take care of your home court. Enjoy it for now,” said TJ McConnell, who had 15 points and 10 assists. “But as soon as we leave this building, we have to wash it away and move on and show maturity on that front. Because the way we walk at MSG is that they Because it’s a hell of a crowd to play really well in front of.”It’s a great fan base. Therefore, we need to be well prepared and well prepared. ”
Indiana thrilled the packed crowd of 17,274 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse with its high-energy play.
But the Pacers are keenly aware that Game 5 at the Garden on Tuesday will be different.
They know they’re nowhere near this series. Just stayed there, stuck at 2-all.
“I think after each game it’s more of a new beginning. Of the 10 games we played in the playoffs, every game was noticeably different in some way, shape, form, so you can tell. ” coach Rick Carlisle said. “So I know the momentum is there. I’m not going to say it’s not. But when you play a team like the Knicks, I’m not going to get into the weeds about that kind of analysis.”
The team fell behind with 0 wins and 2 losses, but bounced back by winning just 7 percent in the playoff series and 6 percent in the conference semifinals.
But with Nix’s injury, Indiana’s odds felt a little better.
They looked a lot better after Sunday’s beating.
“We felt confident after Game 1. Even after Game 1, we were all in the locker room saying we could beat these guys,” Aaron Nesmith said. “We just have to go out there and execute. This has been our third straight game. We need to keep that competitiveness, play at that pace and bring that passion for 48 minutes into the next game.” It has to be burned.”
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Indiana finally showed its fire and passion, which led to the rout.
This was uglier than the “Game of Thrones” wedding, where the Pacers led by 43 points. And Indiana, which has been allergic to defense all season, held the Knicks to 33.7 percent shooting, just 7 of 37 from behind the basket.
Tyrese Haliburton led a balanced attack with 20 points, six boards, five assists and a plus-31 rating.
“We did our job in the last two games. We did what we were supposed to do: defend our home court,” Carlisle said. “I’m not going to tell a thesis about how great we are or anything like that. We weren’t; we’re a team that’s only half way there. And we understand that and we’re going to make it happen on Tuesday night. You have to be very humble about it and prepare for it.”
