Knicks Hold Sneaky Advantage Over Pacers That Could Guarantee Them Series Victory
The Indiana Pacers have emerged as one of the most clutch teams in the NBA, particularly in the postseason. However, according to analysis by 8points9seconds.com, the New York Knicks possess a significant advantage in this area, which could prove detrimental to the Pacers’ chances of advancing to the NBA Finals.
As reported by 8points9seconds.com, the Pacers and Knicks are set to face off in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Wednesday night. This series promises to be an intense matchup, with the winner earning a spot in the NBA Finals, a stage neither team has graced in over two decades. The games are expected to be closely contested, with both teams boasting a strong matchup, and this could play to the Knicks’ advantage, despite Indiana’s impressive clutch performances.
The Knicks Boast the Best Clutch Player in the Series
According to data from NBA.com, cited by 8points9seconds.com, the Pacers have achieved a remarkable 169 ORTG (offensive rating) in clutch situations this postseason, the best in the league. In contrast, the Knicks have posted a respectable 114.3 ORTG in the clutch, ranking sixth-best. While Indiana appears to hold the edge in clutch situations, the Knicks can call upon Jalen Brunson, who is rapidly building a reputation as a late-game hero.
As 8points9seconds.com notes, Brunson hit 16 go-ahead or game-tying shots within the last two minutes of a game during the regular season, the most in the NBA. In comparison, Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton managed 10 such shots, which ranked fourth-most in the league. This disparity could prove significant if the series comes down to the wire, with Brunson potentially holding the upper hand.
Knicks’ Defence Poised to Stifle Pacers’ Late-Game Heroics
If the conference finals descend into a close game, the ball will likely be in the hands of either Brunson or Haliburton. Based on the numbers, 8points9seconds.com suggests that this scenario favours the Knicks and their star player. Furthermore, New York has demonstrated an impressive defensive prowess in the clutch, boasting an 88.2 DRTG (defensive rating) this postseason, which ranks second-best, behind only the Minnesota Timberwolves.
This defensive solidity could prove crucial in stifling any late-game heroics by the Pacers, even if they manage to gain possession with the game on the line. As 8points9seconds.com observes, both teams have shown a remarkable ability to perform under pressure, but ultimately, only one can advance to the NBA Finals.
Series Victory Hinges on Clutch Performances
The Pacers and Knicks have both earned their spot in the conference finals through their ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most. As 8points9seconds.com notes, each team has a lot to be proud of heading into the series, but only one can ultimately claim victory and take a step closer to bringing an NBA Championship home. The outcome of the series may well be decided by seemingly minor factors, such as which team has possession of the ball in the final moments of a close game.
In conclusion, while the Pacers have established themselves as a formidable force in clutch situations, the Knicks’ Jalen Brunson and their stifling defence in the clutch may prove to be the decisive factors in the series. As 8points9seconds.com expertly analysed, the Knicks appear to hold a sneaky advantage that could guarantee them a series victory.
