With their playoff spot secured, the New York Knicks are making ready for his or her first-round matchup in opposition to the Cleveland Cavaliers. However earlier than they get to that, they must face their longtime rivals, the Indiana Pacers, in a pair of video games to shut out the common season.
Regardless of some accidents to key gamers, the Knicks wish to end sturdy and carry some momentum into the playoffs. Head coach Tom Thibodeau has instilled a “no let-up” mentality in his staff, they usually have responded by profitable six of their final eight video games.
Energy ahead Julius Randle is out for the rest of the common season on account of a sprained left ankle, however star level guard Jalen Brunson is anticipated to play regardless of lacking a number of video games on account of hand and foot accidents. Guard RJ Barrett, who missed the final sport on account of a non-COVID sickness, can also be anticipated to return.
The Pacers, who’ve missed the playoffs for 3 straight years, have proven some enchancment this season, however a late-season fade has price them any probability of constructing the play-in event. They’ve misplaced seven of their final 9 video games, together with a loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers that eradicated them from playoff rivalry.
Regardless of the disappointing finish to their season, head coach Rick Carlisle stays optimistic in regards to the future. The Pacers have 5 picks within the upcoming draft and cleared greater than $10 million in cap house with a sequence of minor offers at February’s commerce deadline.
The Knicks and Pacers will play two video games within the ultimate 5 days of the common season, with the Knicks internet hosting the Pacers within the common season finale on Sunday. The Knicks have locked up the fifth seed within the Japanese Convention and wish to construct some momentum heading into the playoffs. The Pacers, however, are enjoying for pleasure and trying to finish their season on a excessive notice.