After the Thriller in Game 1, Cleveland had a hard time pulling away in the fourth quarter yet again. Outscoring Indiana by 13 in the third quarter, the Pacers made their way back into a single digit deficit late in Game 2. Until CJ Miles starred in another late game moment, as he had an off-ball offensive foul with less than a minute to go. The Cavs capitalized and closed out with clutch free throws from Kyrie Irving & Kevin Love to come out on top 117-111.
The Cavs’ Big 3 had yet another impressive scoring night, combining for 89 points, showing that their regular season woes play no factor when it’s time to turn on their playoff switch. When Cleveland’s Big 3 is all active, they’re now 22-5 in playoff games.
Kyrie Irving had the game-high with 37 points and teammate LeBron James earned his second straight double-double (25 points, 10 rebounds) of the series, while Kevin Love shot 86% FG and added in a double-double of his own (27 points, 11 rebounds).
Paul George attempted to will the Pacers back after being down as much as 18 points in the second half with his near triple-double of 29 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. Jeff Teague finally made his presence known after an embarrassing Game 1 performance to play his 17th 20+ point playoff game in Game 2.
The Pacers are in deep trouble after two tough endings in close games. Giving up a game to Cleveland at home will make it impossible for Indiana to make a 2-7 upset happen. The Cavs are doing exactly what’s needed of them to make a third straight NBA Finals appearance. Expect to see them continue their play and make this a quick series.
Game 3 will be on Thursday at 7 PM/ET on TNT as the Pacers get their first taste of home court in this series.
