Pacers Coach Rick Carlisle Slams Officiating After Ejection in Game 2 Loss vs Knicks

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle argues a call with referee Josh Tiven (#58) during the fourth quarter against the New York Knicks in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Second Round Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on May 08, 2024 in New York City. (Photo : Elsa/Getty Images)

Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle expressed frustration with how officials called Game 2 of their Eastern Conference Semifinals against the New York Knicks on Wednesday, May 8, at Madison Square Garden in New York. 

During the post-game press conference, the 64-year-old tactician didn't hold back his disappointment, stating that small-market teams like the Pacers deserve a fair shot.

"I'm always talking to our guys about not making it about the officials but we deserve a fair shot. There's not a consistent balance and that is disappointing," Carlisle said.

The Pacers lost the game following back-and-forth action with the Knicks in crunch time, with a final score of 130-121. 

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Carlisle continued to point out 29 specific plays that the team believed were called the wrong way. They will soon submit them to the NBA office.

Rick Carlisle was ejected from Game 2 vs Knicks

Carlisle went ballistic with 1:19 left in the game after a blown call by the officials, where Knicks center Isaiah Hartenstein was initially called with a double dribble, but it was overturned after a review.

The Pacers coach proceeded to give an earful to official Marc Davis, but he was not given any punishment at first.

Carlisle continued to be incensed with the officials during a timeout with 41.1 left on the clock, and he was eventually assessed two technical fouls and ejected for the remainder of the game.

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