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| Image Credit: <knicksbricks.com> |
The Knicks narrowly avoided a game 7 and potential first round disappointment against the Boston Celtics. We all knew that the Celtics would be no walk in the park, but when you take a look at the roster of both respective teams the series should have ended much sooner.
The Pacers are different, but extremely similar to the Celtics – in all the ways that make this series tough for the Knicks. They’re tough like the C’s, but they’re also young. They have trouble scoring like the C’s, but their star Paul George is emerging rather than fading. They defend like the C’s and they’re actually healthy unlike the previous Celtics opponent -- save Danny Granger (get well soon).
The Knicks will need to match the intensity that the Pacers will throw at them for all 48-minutes if they want a series win. The Pacers don’t take nights off.
Keys to Victory – The Battle in the Paint
The Knicks have often played small ball in these playoffs with Carmelo Anthony at the power forward. Against a front line of Roy Hibbert and David West, that doesn’t really allow for the Knicks to do that without suffering on the boards, and potentially putting Melo at risk of foul trouble. Navigating the series from inside out will be huge for both the Knicks and Pacers.
X-Factor – Steve Novak
The Pacers clog up the paint, defend the pick and roll and rebound the basketball. On most occasions, their perimeter defense is sound as well. But amidst dealing with Carmelo Anthony, someone like Steve Novak can play a big role in stretching the floor and opening things up for other scorers.
Prediction – Indiana Pacers in 6
If this series were to go seven games, I might be compelled to pick New York. A game 7 in Madison Square Garden would be a lot for Indiana to overcome. But I don’t think it will go that far.
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