Pacers get a statement win over the Cavaliers

Pacers win in Cleveland

NBA: Indiana Pacers at Cleveland Cavaliers

Jan 12, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Isaac Okoro (35) tries to strip the ball from Indiana Pacers guard Bennedict Mathurin (00) during the second half at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Ken Blaze/Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

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Pacers Make a Statement with Dominant Win Over Cavs

The Indiana Pacers made a resounding statement on Sunday night, ending the Cleveland Cavaliers impressive home win streak with a 93-78 victory. This win extends the Pacers own streak to six consecutive games, all by double-digit margins.

What stood out most in this game was the Pacers ability to adapt and have different players step up at crucial moments. Throughout the contest, various Pacers took turns being the best player on the floor. Myles Turner led the charge early, scoring 10 of his 15 points in the first half when the team needed an offensive spark.

As the game progressed, other players rose to the occasion. Bennedict Mathurin’s third-quarter performance was pivotal, scoring 10 points and providing the perimeter threat the team desperately needed. Obi Toppin then caught fire late in the third, contributing 10 points in just five minutes.

The fourth quarter saw contributions from multiple players. Jarace Walker dominated the boards, Pascal Siakam became the focal point of the offense, and Andrew Nembhard closed out the game strong with 11 points.

This win wasn’t just about offense, though. The Pacers defense was exceptional, particularly in the second half. They held the Cavaliers, who boast the league’s best offense, to just 40 points after halftime. The Pacers effectively walled off the rim, making it difficult for Cleveland’s guards to penetrate and limiting the effectiveness of their big men, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.

The Pacers defensive pressure was relentless, forcing turnovers and disrupting the Cavaliers usually fluid offense. This defensive effort, combined with the team’s balanced scoring attack, proved to be the winning formula against one of the NBA’s top teams.

With this victory, the Pacers continue to climb the Eastern Conference standings, currently sitting in fifth place. Their recent defensive improvements, coupled with their already potent offense, make them a formidable opponent for any team in the league.

For more insights and a deeper dive into the Pacers’ statement win over the Cavaliers, tune into the Locked On Pacers podcast for this and much more.

Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Pacers Podcast:

• Detailed breakdown of individual player performances

• Analysis of the Pacers defensive strategies against the Cavs

• Discussion on the team’s recent six-game winning streak

• Updates on Tyrese Haliburton’s injury status

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