The Indiana Pacers defeated the New York Knicks 111-106 in Game 3 of the NBA playoff series. This victory saw the Pacers narrow down their deficit, trailing 2-1 in the ongoing series against the Knicks. However, Josh Hart of the Knicks was disappointed by a particular referee as he seemed “unapproachable” according to the forward after the game.
To avoid a fine, the forward, who finished with 10 points and a record 18 rebounds, didn’t elaborate. He chose to keep his lips sealed when he was questioned regarding the particular official. However, the Knicks still find themselves in a commanding position, leading the NBA playoff series 2-1.
Josh Hart says that one of the referees was unapproachable tonight.
— Knicks Videos (@sny_knicks) May 11, 2024
On the officiating: "I like my money. I'm gonna keep my money." pic.twitter.com/67naAr4iR0
Uhh...Im not going to say anything. I like my money. I'm gonna keep my money. Josh Hart said to the reporters after the game
On the other hand, Aaron Nesmith made back-to-back free shots to give the Pacers their first victory in the series.
Tyrese Haliburton finished with seven assists, four rebounds, and 35 points. In addition to scoring 26 points, Pascal Siakam pulled down 7 rebounds. Myles Turner finished with 10 rebounds and 21 points. It remains to be seen now who comes out on top in this crucial game 4 matchup on Sunday, May 12.
The New York Knicks’ forward, Josh Hart was not a big fan of the officiating done versus the Pacers in game 3. During a particular play, Miles Turner of the Pacers was awarded a blocked shot call by the referee on Hart’s layup.
"I know it was a goaltend. I saw it."
— Knicks Videos (@sny_knicks) May 11, 2024
– Josh Hart on Myles Turner's block on his layup attempt with two minutes left pic.twitter.com/VZN4F9vMxI
However, according to Hart, the call made by the referee was the wrong one as he claimed that Turner should have been called for “goaltending.”
I know it was a goaltend. I saw it, It was a goaltend. But they obviously didn’t call it.
Josh Hart said to the reporters after the game
Hart will have to concede that this one fell into the latter category given the Knicks’ recent history of both having late decisions go their way and against them in the playoffs. Also, rival coaches Nick Nurse and Rick Carlisle have both complained about the Knicks getting decisions their way in the past.
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