Pacers Defense Shines in Statement Win Over Warriors
The Indiana Pacers are on a roll, securing their fifth consecutive victory with an impressive 111-105 win over the Golden State Warriors. This triumph not only pushed the Pacers to a .500 record but also showcased their growing defensive prowess.
What’s most surprising about this win streak is how the Pacers are getting it done - with defense. Yes, you read that right. The team that has been known for its high-octane offense is now finding success on the other end of the court.
The numbers tell the story. The Warriors, typically an above-average offensive team, were held to just 43.3% shooting from the field and a mere 31.6% from beyond the arc. Even more impressive was the Pacers ability to contain Stephen Curry, limiting the sharpshooter to just 10 points on 2-of-13 shooting.
Andrew Nembhard deserves a lion’s share of the credit for Curry’s off night. His defensive tenacity set the tone for the entire team. But it wasn’t just Nembhard; the entire squad stepped up defensively, showing a level of connectivity that has been missing in previous games.
This defensive resurgence isn’t just a one-game wonder. Over their last eight games, the Pacers rank fifth in the NBA in defensive rating. It’s a remarkable turnaround for a team that has struggled on that end of the floor in recent years.
Frontcourt Dominance
While the defense stole the headlines, the Pacers frontcourt duo of Pascal Siakam and Myles Turner carried the offensive load. Turner led all scorers with 23 points, while Siakam chipped in 20. Their combined efficiency and ability to exploit mismatches proved crucial, especially in the fourth quarter when the game hung in the balance.
Turner, in particular, came up big when it mattered most. He knocked down a dagger three-pointer in the final seconds to seal the victory, capping off a performance that included 10 rebounds and three blocks.
This win over the Warriors serves as a statement for the Pacers. It proves they can compete with quality opponents and that their recent success is no fluke. As they continue to climb the Eastern Conference standings, the Pacers are showing they have the potential to be more than just an offensive juggernaut.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Pacers defensive turnaround and frontcourt dominance, tune into the Locked On Pacers podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Pacers Podcast:
• TJ McConnell’s unexpected three-point barrage
• Benn Mathurin’s evolving role and impact
• Tyrese Haliburton’s continued excellence despite a quiet scoring night
