The intensity of the NBA playoffs often hinges on crucial moments, and Game 1 of the second-round series between the Indiana Pacers and the New York Knicks was no exception. As the Madison Square Garden crowd held its collective breath, the officiating crew found itself under scrutiny due to a controversial call that swung the game’s momentum.
Indiana Pacers Coach Unleashes Fury: 29 Calls Questioned?
Head Coach Rick Carlisle ignited the firestorm with some scathing remarks aimed at the officiating crew. According to ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) on Twitter, Carlisle stated “There were 29 plays in Game 1 that we thought were clearly not called well.” This explosive accusation sent shockwaves through the NBA world, raising serious questions about the integrity of the game and the Pacers’ chances in the series.
"There were 29 plays in Game 1 that we thought were clearly not called well."
Pacers coach Rick Carlisle discusses the controversial officiating in their series against the Knicks 🗣
(via @NBATV, h/t @sny_knicks) pic.twitter.com/cA2Q9U5Hkh
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) May 9, 2024
With the score tied at 115-115, the Knicks were in possession of the ball. Jalen Brunson attempted a pass to Donte DiVincenzo, but Indiana Pacers small forward Aaron Nesmith deflected the ball. However, the referees called a kickball violation against Nesmith, even though replays showed that the ball did not hit his foot. The call went unchallenged, and the Knicks retained possession. DiVincenzo capitalized on the opportunity, sinking a crucial 3-pointer that ultimately secured New York’s victory.
Unreviewable Violation
The kickball violation is not reviewable according to NBA rules. Only fouls, goaltends, and out-of-bounds calls can be challenged. Unfortunately for the Indiana Pacers, this pivotal moment fell outside the scope of reviewable plays. Center Myles Turner’s subsequent offensive foul call after setting a screen for Tyrese Haliburton added to Indiana’s frustration, but the referees’ decisions stood.
Rick Carlisle’s Reaction
Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle, known for his measured demeanor, expressed his thoughts on the officiating after the game. “I don’t want to talk about the officiating,” Carlisle said. “We’re not expecting to get calls here. It would be nice if they laid off that one (Turner’s offensive foul), but they didn’t. That’s just the way it goes.” Carlisle’s frustration was palpable, but he acknowledged the reality of playing in a hostile environment.
Myles Turner’s Take
Center Myles Turner echoed Carlisle’s sentiments. “In my experience in this league, I think it’s best when players decide the outcome of the game,” Turner stated. He emphasized that the Pacers couldn’t leave the game’s fate solely in the hands of the referees. Turner eagerly awaited the Last 2 Minutes report, hoping for clarity on the controversial calls.
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