Revenge or redemption? Knicks and Pacers clash in Oct. 25 opener

This game carries significance beyond the win-loss record. The Knicks and Pacers have a long-standing rivalry that began in the 1990s, highlighted by legendary battles between Reggie Miller and Patrick Ewing. The teams last faced off in the playoffs in 2013 when Roy Hibbert's iconic block of Carmelo Anthony's dunk in Game 6 of the Conference Semifinals prevented the Knicks from advancing to the Conference Finals for the first time since 2000.

Fast forward to 2024, and the two teams were engaged in a grueling seven-game series characterized by injuries and comeback attempts. Despite losing All-Star Jalen Brunson, the Knicks pushed the series to seven games, benefiting from Indiana's difficulty closing out close contests. The Pacers ended the Knicks' playoff run with a historic shooting display in Game 7 at Madison Square Garden, capping New York’s most successful season in years with a loss at home. Despite this, the Knicks remained optimistic that a healthier roster would bolster their prospects in 2025.

Over the summer, the Knicks made significant roster changes. They traded Bojan Bogdanovic and several draft picks to the Brooklyn Nets for Mikal Bridges, filling out their "Nova Knicks" squad consisting of Bridges, Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart and Donte DiVincenzo. They also re-signed key free agent OG Anunoby, finalizing their rotation and positioning themselves as strong contenders in the East.

In contrast, the Pacers concentrated on internal growth. They secured Pascal Siakam with a four-year contract and extended breakout playoff guard Andrew Nembhard, fortifying their starting backcourt with Tyrese Haliburton and Nembhard for the foreseeable future. Additional short-term contracts and draft day signings indicate the Pacers are maintaining the approach that nearly earned them a 3-1 lead over the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals.

The stakes of this game are different for each team. For the Knicks, it’s a chance to seek revenge with a fully healthy lineup and a new acquisition. Indiana’s commanding Game 7 win and Tyrese Haliburton’s tribute to Reggie Miller still resonate with the Knicks, who are eager to prove they are not the same team that fell by 21 points at home last May. With a healthy roster and Bridges boosting their defense and chemistry, the Knicks aim to validate their preseason expectations.

For Indiana, the game is about earning respect. Despite reaching the Conference Finals and defeating two major rivals, the Pacers have been underestimated mainly in the East. Critics have labeled them a fluke, often overlooking them in favor of teams that made flashier offseason moves.

The Pacers are keen to establish credibility. Questions still linger about Haliburton’s recovery from injury and his limited playing time with Team USA. A victory over the Knicks would help dispel these criticisms and enhance the Pacers' reputation as the season progresses. Following their spectacular playoff shooting performance at the iconic Garden, a win would signal to the league that Haliburton and the Pacers are formidable opponents and a real threat.

The Knicks will fight for respect, while the Pacers seek broader recognition. Regardless of the outcome, the Oct. 25 game is a must-watch for NBA fans, not just Pacers and Knicks supporters.