Rick Carlisle's Controversial Move Sparks Outrage Among Pacers Fans in Knicks Showdown

The Indiana Pacers once again couldn't withstand a hostile Knicks team and Madison Square Garden environment, falling in a 130-121 slugfest Wednesday night. New York now holds a 2-0 series lead.

There was one point in the fourth quarter when it felt like the Pacers had a chance to steal a game on the road vs. the Eastern Conference's No. 2 seed. And believe it or not, 32-year-old NBA journeyman TJ McConnell was the main reason why. He seemed to be the only Pacer to give Jalen Brunson trouble on defense, and his offensive craftiness gave the Knicks fits at times. McConnell finished the game with 10 points, 12 assists and four rebounds.

However, late in the fourth quarter, Carlisle decided to send McConnell back to the bench where he remained for the final minutes. The Knicks then proceeded to go on a run and win Game 2.

Carlisle's decision sparked outraged among both Pacers and NBA fans. McConnell deserved to remain in the game due to the impact he was making. Even Knicks fans are thanking Carlisle for making the change.

The Indiana Pacers have had multiple opportunities to win both Games 1 and 2 to start the series. But taking TJ McConnell out in crunch time has come back to haunt them.

Carlisle has to let McConnell play down the stretch in Game 3.