The Knicks are only one win away from advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals and Donte DiVincenzo had lots to say concerning the Pacers following a chippy Game 5.
The Pacers have been completely outmatched at Madison Square Garden, mirrored within the 121-91 scoreline.
The Knicks outpaced Indiana 53-29 on the boards and on the offensive glass (20-5).
Frustrations grew to become evident when DiVincenzo and Indiana’s Myles Turner bought into it within the third quarter and their scuffle needed to be damaged up.
“They were trying to be tough guys. And that’s not their identity, and there’s nothing more to that,” DiVincenzo mentioned (via SNY). “I don’t agree with trying to walk up on somebody. … Nobody is going to fight in the NBA. So take the foul, keep it moving. You’re not a tough guy. Just keep it moving.”
The NY guard went on to confess that the ‘tough guy’ tactic Indiana carried out in Game 4 labored, however defined that his crew knew what was coming in Tuesday’s Game 5.
“They were talking, trying to be physical, basically trying to be our brand, our identity, and they were successful with it last game,” DiVincenzo mentioned of what was totally different from Game 4 to Game 5. “We regrouped, watched film, and just understood that’s not who we are. We came out tonight and that’s exactly who we are.”
The final time New York featured within the Conference Finals was within the 1999-2000 season, happening to present opponents, Indiana.
DiVincenzo says his crew’s struggle isn’t over but, with Game 6 going again to Indiana.
“They are going to come with the physicality in the next game,” DiVincenzo defined. “Just be ourselves for the full 48 minutes. When we do that, rebound and defend we can beat anybody.”
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