The 2025 Eastern Conference finals are heating up as the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers revive their storied rivalry with a modern twist. With a history dating back to the 1990s, these two teams are no strangers to intense playoff battles. From Reggie Miller's iconic choke gesture to Tyrese Haliburton's recent replication of the move directed at Spike Lee, the animosity between the Knicks and Pacers is palpable. Last season's Game 7 showdown, which saw the Pacers dominate with a 67% shooting performance led by Haliburton, only added fuel to the fire.
Despite the on-court drama, off-court antics have also added spice to the Knicks-Pacers matchup. Haliburton's postgame fashion statement featuring Miller's choking gesture sparked controversy, with Knicks guard Josh Hart offering a tongue-in-cheek critique. The tension spilled over into the WWE realm, as Haliburton and Knicks star Jalen Brunson engaged in a theatrical showdown during a SmackDown event at MSG. As the series unfolds, fans can expect both fierce competition on the court and entertaining drama off it in this modernized rivalry between the Knicks and Pacers.