NBA PLAY OFFS : Eastern Conference Semifinals Game 1: Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Indiana Pacers
In the opening game of the 2025 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference Semifinals, the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers faced off against the fourth-seeded Indiana Pacers. Despite their regular-season dominance, the Cavaliers fell short, losing 121–112 to a determined Pacers squad in NBA Playoffs.
Table of Contents
Game Overview
- Final Score: Pacers 121, Cavaliers 112
- Location: Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, Cleveland, OH
- Series Standing: Pacers lead 1–0
Key Performances
Indiana Pacers:
- Andrew Nembhard: Led the team with 23 points, shooting an impressive 5-of-6 from beyond the arc.
- Tyrese Haliburton: Contributed a double-double with 22 points and 13 assists, along with 3 blocks.
- Aaron Nesmith & Pascal Siakam: Each added 17 points, providing crucial support.
- Myles Turner: Recorded a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds.Wikipedia
Cleveland Cavaliers:
- Donovan Mitchell: Scored 33 points, marking his eighth consecutive playoff game with at least 30 points. However, he struggled from three-point range, hitting only 1 of 11 attempts.
- Evan Mobley: Added 20 points and 10 rebounds, showcasing his presence in the paint.
Analysis
Pacers’ Strategy:
The Pacers executed a balanced offensive attack, with all five starters scoring in double figures. Their perimeter shooting was particularly effective, hitting 52.8% of their three-point attempts. This spacing allowed for fluid ball movement and open looks, keeping the Cavaliers’ defense on its heels.
Cavaliers’ Challenges:
Cleveland struggled from beyond the arc, making just 9 of 38 three-point attempts (23.7%). This cold shooting, combined with the absence of key players like Darius Garland, affected their offensive rhythm. Additionally, their defense couldn’t contain the Pacers’ versatile scoring options, leading to the defeat.
Conclusion
In the NBA Playoffs the Pacers’ cohesive team play and efficient shooting secured them a crucial road victory, setting the tone for the series. The Cavaliers will need to adjust their defensive schemes and find ways to improve their shooting efficiency to bounce back in Game 2.
