In a decisive Game 4 of the Eastern Conference playoff series, the Indiana Pacers dominated the Cleveland Cavaliers with a commanding 129-109 victory, establishing a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series. This win saw the Pacers control the game from the outset, leading wire-to-wire and displaying a level of play that the Cavaliers struggled to match.
The Pacers showcased their offensive prowess, scoring an impressive 80 points in the first half alone, a performance that highlighted their ability to exploit the Cavaliers’ defensive weaknesses. Indiana’s success was driven by their frontcourt players, with Pascal Siakam, Obi Toppin, and Miles Turner combining for 61 points, significantly outpacing the Cavaliers’ big men, who managed only 17 points collectively.
As the game unfolded, the Cavaliers faced a significant setback when star guard Donovan Mitchell sustained a left ankle injury. After a strong first half, Mitchell did not return to the court following halftime. Pacers’ head coach Kenny Atkinson confirmed that an MRI would be conducted on Mitchell’s ankle to assess the injury’s severity, casting doubt on his availability for the crucial Game 5 scheduled for Tuesday.
Cavaliers’ head coach J.B. Bickerstaff expressed disappointment in his team’s performance, acknowledging that they were outplayed in every facet of the game. He noted that Indiana’s physicality and intensity were unmatched, leaving the Cavaliers unable to execute their offensive strategies effectively. Bickerstaff admitted that the Cavaliers’ lack of force and rhythm contributed to their downfall in this pivotal playoff matchup.
The game was marked by moments of physicality, including a notable incident between Indiana’s Ben Mathurin and Cleveland’s DeAndre Hunter, which led to a brief altercation on the court. Despite the intensity, the Pacers maintained their composure and continued to build their lead throughout the contest.
With this victory, the Pacers not only took a commanding series lead but also positioned themselves favorably in the playoffs, as teams with a 3-1 lead historically advance 96% of the time. The Cavaliers now face the daunting prospect of winning three consecutive games to avoid elimination, a task that may prove even more challenging if Mitchell is unable to recover in time for Game 5.
As the series progresses, both teams will need to address their respective challenges. The Cavaliers must regroup and find a way to regain their rhythm, while the Pacers will aim to replicate their success and capitalize on the Cavaliers’ vulnerabilities. Game 5 promises to be a critical moment in the series, with the stakes higher than ever for both franchises.