INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Indiana Pacers face down the New York Knicks in the NBA Playoffs for the second year in a row.

During last season’s Playoff run, the Pacers beat the Knicks in Game 7, in New York, to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals. Tonight, they’ll return to New York for a rematch with the Knicks for Game 1.

Pacers TV Analyst Chris Denari says the Pacers are more than ready for the Knicks.

“The experience they had last year playing in Madison Square Garden, winning a game 7 getting into the Eastern Conference Finals a year ago, I think that really sets the tone for this team. They know what to expect, they know what the Knicks will bring,” Denari said. 

Once the Pacers are done in New York, they’ll return to Gainbridge Fieldhouse for games 3 and 4.

“Can’t wait until we get home,” Denari said. “Sunday is an unbelievable day with the Indy 500, a Pacers home playoff game, the Fever play a game a day before. This is a special time, but it all starts tonight.”  

Tonight’s game tips off at 8 p.m. at Madison Square Garden New York City. 

Denari says the last time this has happened was back in 2013 and 2014. That was when the Heat and Lebron took on the Pacers. But, he says, this is a special time for Pacers fans. 

“What Tyrese Haliburton has done, what this organization has done, they have rejuvenated the fan base in Indianapolis,” Denari said.

If you want to watch Game 1, The Dugout Bar in Fletcher Place is hosting a watch party. 

For Game 2 on Friday, Gainbridge Fieldhouse is opening its doors for a free watch party. Doors open at 7 p.m. and tip-off is set for 8 p.m. Tickets are sold out. 

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