New York Knicks Edge Indiana Pacers in Game 1 Despite Controversial Calls, NBA Report Confirms
The New York Knicks’ 121-117 win over the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals had its fair share of controversy, with the NBA’s Last Two Minute Report confirming multiple questionable calls in the game’s closing moments. Among these, a critical illegal screen call against Pacers center Myles Turner was upheld, despite Indiana’s challenge.
With just 15 seconds left in the game and the Pacers trailing 118-117, Indiana guard Tyrese Haliburton was driving up the court when Turner set a high screen on New York’s Donte DiVincenzo, knocking him to the ground. The referees immediately called an offensive foul on Turner, a decision that Indiana’s bench promptly challenged. However, the challenge was unsuccessful, and the Last Two Minute Report released Tuesday evening supported the call.
The report also pointed out four missed calls in the final two minutes of the game. In addition to the illegal screen that was called, Turner should have been whistled for another illegal screen on DiVincenzo in the backcourt with around 10 seconds left. Moreover, an incorrect kicked ball violation was called against Aaron Nesmith with 53 seconds remaining. This call interrupted what could have been an Indiana fast break. The report also highlighted a missed defensive three-second violation by Turner with 1:19 remaining in the game.
Turner, reacting to the Last Two Minute Report, expressed his belief that players should decide the outcomes of games. He added that he was glad the report highlighted the calls, but lamented the impact they had on the final score.
After the controversial call against Turner, the Knicks sealed their victory with three critical free throws. Before that, DiVincenzo hit a long 28-foot three-pointer that extended the Knicks’ lead to 118-115. This key shot came just after the erroneous kicked ball call against Nesmith, which disrupted a potential fast break opportunity for Indiana.
Zach Zarba, the game’s crew chief, admitted post-game that the kicked ball violation was a mistake, stating that a review showed the ball had hit Nesmith’s hand, making the call invalid.
Despite the drama surrounding the game’s conclusion, the Knicks and the Pacers are set to face off again for Game 2 at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night, with both teams eager to move past the controversy and focus on the road ahead.
