Bill Simmons Warns NBA May Fix Knicks-Pacers Game 6

Bill Simmons, a longtime NBA commentator and founder of The Ringer, has suggested a conspiracy theory that the NBA might influence the outcome of Game 6 in the Eastern Conference Finals between the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers to favor the Knicks. Simmons points to the NBA's interest in boosting national ratings, as a Finals featuring the Knicks (from the largest U.S. media market) against the Oklahoma City Thunder would draw more viewers than an Indiana-Oklahoma City matchup, given Indiana's smaller market size. He draws parallels to the controversial 2002 Western Conference Finals where officiating allegedly favored the Los Angeles Lakers over the Sacramento Kings, preventing a small-market Finals matchup. Simmons cautions bettors to be wary of the potential for the NBA to 'fix' Game 6, noting the league's history and the stakes involved in maintaining high viewership. The Knicks currently trail the series 3-2, with Game 6 set to be played in Indiana, where the Pacers are favored. Simmons' remarks highlight ongoing skepticism about league influence on playoff outcomes to maximize interest and ratings.