Tonight, the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers are facing off in the fifth game of the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals. The Knicks have been handling the Pacers well this game. Jalen Brunson is clearly back on his game after a tough time in game four.
Tonight will determine which team breaks the 2-2 tie and has the advantage going into the next game. As of right now, it seems like it will be the Knicks, but the Pacers are shifty and have the ability to quickly turn things around.
An Altercation Ensues During Knicks Pacers Game
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Less than 11 minutes into the second quarter, there was a bit of a scuffle at half-court. It started with Pacers center Isaiah Jackson setting a hard screen for his teammate T.J. McConnell. The opposing player took a hard dive and it was immediately called an offensive foul due to the screen not being set. This screen set off multiple New York players.
Isaiah Hartenstein stepped up and bumped chests with Jackson, clearly upset over the rough screen. As the two big men exchanged words, Alec Burks joined the scuffle and put his hand on Jackson’s throat to push him back. This was when a Pacers assistant coach stepped in to grab Jackson and end the situation.
The Call Made By The Ref
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This was a very quick call made by the refs. A foul was called on the screen, and all three players were given technical fouls. This means that they have to remain on their best behavior for the rest of the game. Neither team can afford to lose a player due to heightened emotions on the court.
The problem is now the referees are paying closer attention to every move made by the players. Since the techs multiple whistles have been called on small fouls. This is the best way for the refs to take some control back from the game, but it can also lead to sloppy refereeing that can ruin an NBA game.
How These Fouls Can Change the Game
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When something like this occurs on the court it can light a fire under a team. Jackson’s harsh screen could be what the Knicks need to pull further away from this quick Indiana team. At the moment it seems like this is exactly what is happening as Brunson is lighting up the court.
However, the ooposite could happen for the Pacers. Burks hand to Jackson’s neck should cause Indiana to want this win even more. His teammates should be more aggressive and ready to go to battle for him. Playing tough and wanting this win will be the only way they can beat the Knicks.
It’s still the first half, so the Pacers still have time to take control of the game. Hopefully, the rest of it remains clean and no players choose to scuffle again. Thankfully, this was a very minor disagreement that can be left in the past. However, it proves how high emotions get for players during the playoffs.
About the Author
Elizabeth is an avid watcher of all things sports. However, the Boston sports teams will always be her number one. Her favorite sport to watch is basketball, but she also enjoys professional wrestling, soccer, and baseball. You can find her on X @edellapiana1 to check out more content.
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