The Indiana Pacers have submitted a total of 78 instances of incorrect or non-calls to the NBA following Games 1 and 2 of their playoff series against the New York Knicks. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle expressed frustration with the refereeing decisions in those games, leading to the decision to send clips to the NBA office for review.
However, after facing similar officiating issues in Game 2, the Pacers ultimately reversed their decision to send the clips, implying that they are being penalized for playing against the larger market Knicks. Carlisle emphasized the need for his team to examine defensive film as the Knicks shot an impressive 65% in the second half of Game 1 and 67% in the third quarter of Game 2.
Star player Tyrese Haliburton acknowledged the officiating issues but stressed the importance of the team playing better regardless. The Pacers are now facing the challenge of guarding Jalen Brunson as the series moves to Indianapolis for Game 3 on Friday.
Carlisle made the crucial decision to switch defenders on Brunson late in Game 2, a move that had a positive impact on the team rotation and was supported by players. As the Pacers look to bounce back in the series, fans can expect heightened intensity and potentially some adjustments from both teams in Game 3. Stay tuned to Forever Sports Online for more updates on this thrilling playoff matchup.
