In a heart-stopping Eastern Conference Finals debut, the Knicks squandered a 17-point lead, allowing the Pacers to snatch victory in overtime, leaving New York fans wondering if 2000 was the last good year after all.

In a historic collapse that defied NBA odds, the Knicks coughed up a commanding lead and lost 138-135 in overtime, marking their first playoff game since the turn of the millennium, and leaving fans to ponder if perhaps it was time to dig out those throwback jerseys from 2000 as a reminder of happier days. Thanks to Tyrese Haliburton's 31 points and Aaron Nesmith's scorching 30, the Pacers completed their improbable comeback, highlighting yet again that the Knicks’ knack for drama remains unbroken.

As the fourth quarter began, the Knicks were firmly in control, boasting a comfortable 17-point lead. Nothing could have prepared the fans for what would follow: a frenetic finish that seemed to defy both reason and statistics. Reportedly, teams that hold a lead of 14 points or more in the final minutes had been a flawless 994-0 under the watchful eyes of those who track such things, but alas, the Knicks chose to throw caution—and apparently, the game—into the wind.

The early signs of trouble for the Knicks began with Haliburton's game-tying shot that sparked a rally, reminiscent of the thrill before a rollercoaster plunges into chaos. Yet, during this rollercoaster's descent, Haliburton had the gall to have his initial game-winner ruled a two-pointer due to a rogue toe establishing an unauthorized relationship with the three-point line, stifling what might have been an even more glorious climax for the Pacers.

With 3:14 left on the clock, the Pacers executed a dauntless comeback, scoring an impressive 23 points to slowly chip away at the Knicks' lead. The earsplitting roar from Pacers fans probably rivaled a rock concert by the time the clock hit the final whistle, which signaled not only the end of regulation but the beginning of overtime—a delightful gift for the Indiana franchise, which has somehow resurrected ancient fears in the hearts of Knicks supporters.

In overtime, the Knicks started strong, scoring the first four points and briefly renewing hope amongst their fanbase. However, even that fleeting light was quickly extinguished. Neither team was able to assert dominance, as the score fluctuated precariously, with no team leading by more than a single point in the final two minutes. It's as if both teams were locked in an intricate dance, each trying to outdo the other while barely keeping their footing on the court—akin to watching a slow-motion train wreck that is somehow still riveting.

Andrew Nembhard, a man for the moment, scored seven key points in overtime, helping to hawk the victory for the Pacers. His late-game efforts transformed him into a hero for a night, while Knicks fans were left debating whether the 2000 vintage of despair could be bottled. Meanwhile, Aaron Nesmith’s eight three-pointers positioned him as the magician behind the smoke and mirrors, casting an illusion of hope on the otherwise grim prospects of the Knicks.

As the scoreboard finally read 138-135 in favor of Indiana, the collective sigh from Knicks fans could potentially be heard in neighboring states. The pain of this loss is compounded by the fact that the Knicks have now not won a playoff game since the year 2000—a time when dial-up internet was king, and flip phones were considered the epitome of tech. Perhaps a wise move for the Knicks would be to ensure that their future playoff strategies involve tactics that exist in the 21st century.

In reflection, this game felt less like a playoff showcase and more like a tragic episode where the Knicks have become unwitting participants in their own melodrama. Living in the past is one thing, but attempting to reenact it on the basketball court is quite another. After leading by 17 points in the fourth quarter, the Knicks lost by a score of 138-135 after overtime, extending their long wait for a playoff victory worthy of celebration since they have not won a playoff game since the year 2000.