As Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals tips off, the spotlight is firmly on the Indiana Pacers, who are looking to shock the NBA world by toppling the No. 1 seeded Cleveland Cavaliers.
While the Cavaliers enter this series as favorites, the Pacers have proven they’re not here just to participate they’re here to compete.
The Pacers advanced to the second round by defeating the Milwaukee Bucks in just five games, showcasing elite ball movement, sharp shooting, and a commitment to unselfish play. Tyrese Haliburton, the engine of the Pacers’ offense, has been outstanding, averaging double-digit assists and showing excellent court vision.
The midseason addition of Pascal Siakam has added strength and versatility, giving Indiana a reliable scoring and defensive presence in the paint.
Despite their strong form, the Cavaliers present a different kind of challenge. Cleveland is a defensive juggernaut with size, depth, and playoff experience. Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley headline a roster that can clamp down defensively while still scoring efficiently. The Cavs come in rested after sweeping the Miami Heat in Round 1 and will look to capitalize on their home-court advantage.
However, the Pacers have reason to be confident. They won three out of four meetings against Cleveland during the regular season, including two victories in Cleveland. That track record, combined with their current momentum, makes Indiana a dangerous opponent.
As the series unfolds starting with Game 1 and continuing through mid-May the key questions will be: Can Indiana maintain their pace against Cleveland’s physical defense? Will Haliburton and Siakam continue to perform under playoff pressure? And most importantly, can they steal at least one game on the road to shift the series in their favor?
The odds may be stacked against them, but the Pacers have already defied expectations. Now, they face their biggest test yet.