Mitchell's Injury Highlights Pacers' Game 4 Domination Over Cavaliers

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Post on May 13, 2025

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Mitchell's Injury Highlights Pacers' Game 4 Domination Over Cavaliers

The Indiana Pacers delivered a resounding statement in Game 4 of their first-round playoff series against the Cleveland Cavaliers, securing a decisive victory fueled by dominant team play and punctuated by a concerning injury to Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell. The 116-99 win evened the series at 2-2, injecting renewed life into the Pacers' playoff hopes and leaving the Cavaliers facing a crucial Game 5.

Pacers' Dominance Across the Board

The Pacers' victory wasn't about a single star performance; it was a collective effort. From tip-off, Indiana dictated the pace, showcasing superior teamwork and a relentless defensive intensity that stifled Cleveland's offensive rhythm. Their ball movement was crisp, leading to numerous open looks, while their defense forced turnovers and contested shots effectively.

• Tyrese Haliburton's Maestro Performance: Haliburton orchestrated the Pacers' offense with his signature blend of scoring and playmaking, finishing with a near triple-double. His court vision and ability to find open teammates proved instrumental in breaking down the Cavaliers' defense.

• Bennedict Mathurin's Rising Star Moment: The young guard showcased his immense potential, providing crucial scoring bursts and showcasing improved defensive awareness. His energy was infectious, fueling the Pacers’ momentum throughout the game.

• Dominant Inside Presence: The Pacers effectively controlled the paint, outrebounding the Cavaliers and establishing a strong inside presence. Their ability to consistently secure second-chance opportunities proved crucial in building their lead.

Mitchell's Injury Casts a Shadow

While the Pacers celebrated their victory, a significant cloud hung over the game: Donovan Mitchell's apparent ankle injury. The All-Star guard went down hard in the third quarter, forcing him to leave the game and raising serious concerns about his availability for the remainder of the series. The severity of the injury remains unclear, pending further evaluation, but its impact on the Cavaliers' playoff run is undeniable. His absence significantly alters Cleveland's offensive dynamic, leaving a gaping hole in their scoring and playmaking abilities.

Looking Ahead to Game 5

The series is now delicately poised at 2-2. The Pacers, energized by their dominant Game 4 performance and fueled by the momentum shift, will head into Game 5 with renewed confidence. The Cavaliers, meanwhile, face a monumental challenge. They must find a way to overcome the potential absence of their star player and rediscover their offensive rhythm. The outcome of Game 5 will likely hinge on Cleveland's ability to adjust to Mitchell's potential absence and the Pacers' ability to maintain their consistent level of play. The series is far from over, and the next game promises to be a pivotal clash.

Keywords: Pacers, Cavaliers, NBA Playoffs, Donovan Mitchell, Injury, Tyrese Haliburton, Bennedict Mathurin, Game 4, Game 5, Playoffs 2024, Indiana Pacers, Cleveland Cavaliers, NBA, Basketball, Playoffs, Series Tied, Upset, Underdog

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