Key Takeaways:
– Following the Pacers’ playoff win over the Knicks, the team’s aged rival Reggie Miller shared an Instagram post for Knicks supporters.
– Miller commemorated Jalen Brunson’s performance for the Knicks, despite Brunson fracturing his hand during Game 7.
– Reggie Miller’s history with the Knicks dates back to intense playoffs matchups in the ’90s.
– Other former Knicks rivals, like Paul Pierce and Tyrese Haliburton, also mocked the Knicks after their elimination.
– Despite the loss, the Knicks have had a commendable season and have an opportunity to improve significantly in the off season.
Article:
Comedy and controversy was rampant on social media in the wake of the Indiana Pacers’ playoff win against the New York Knicks. Reggie Miller, former Pacers player and long-standing rival of the Knicks, seized the moment to lightly troll the Knicks via Instagram.
Miller’s Playful Jab
In the wake of the Pacers knocking out the Knicks on May 19, Miller expressed his thoughts on Instagram. Sharing a chat with Josh Hart, the retired NBA star referred to Jalen Brunson as a “true BALLER,” despite Brunson suffering a hand fracture in Game 7. Miller, notorious for his on-court battles against the Knicks through the 1990s, couldn’t resist poking fun at the Knicks’ loss.
Miller’s NBA Legacy with the Knicks
Throughout his NBA career, Reggie Miller shared a notable on-court history with the Knicks. Their rivalry took center stage during three major Eastern Conference Finals showdowns in 1994, 1999, and 2000. The Knicks emerged victorious in the first two, leaving Miller and Pacers to claim the third. The 2024 playoff series marked the second face-off between the two teams since Miller hung up his boots.
Additional Chides from NBA Greats
Notably, Miller was not the lone retired Knicks adversary to comment on the playoff elimination. Boston Celtics legend, Paul Pierce, was seen stomping on a Brunson jersey in an evident taunt at the Knicks. He later clarified that his stomping had no connection with the team’s star player, explaining that it was more of a Knicks’ critique. Even Tyrese Haliburton couldn’t resist joining the fray, sporting a T-shirt showing Miller’s infamous ‘choking’ gesture against the Knicks.
Despite the Fans’ Frustration, All Is Not Lost
The Knicks’ elimination might have sparked these taunting posts, but it’s worth noting that the Knicks have significantly advanced this season. Their elimination might have fallen short of their own aspirations, but their successful playoff run suggests potential success in their future.
In conclusion, amid all the online taunting, the Knicks remain one of the most improved and promising teams this NBA season. Notwithstanding the playoff loss, they have had an impressive season and have demonstrated their potential to the league. As the curtain closes on their current run, they’ll look forward to the off-season for some much-needed rest and preparations for a more robust comeback.