But the relentless Pacers made them work for this victory. They went on multiple late-game runs, testing Cleveland’s poise, togetherness and toughness. They made the Cavs execute in the crunch time, something that has been an issue at various points this season.
Each time Indiana charged forward and pulled close, Cleveland responded. The Cavs won the fourth quarter, 32-26. They outscored Indiana, 12-6, in the final 3:30. - Chris Fedor
This is the key takeaway for me. Every time the Cavs threatened to get some separation the Pacers hit a couple of shots. The Cavs' poise, togetherness, and toughness was tested repeatedly. I kept saying, "Here comes the big choke", but it never came. The Cavs got a stop, a bucket, and kept two steps ahead.
I kept waiting for them to go on one of their patented runs where they go five minutes without a field goal, but not this time. Part of that is because the Pacers have the league's 3rd worst defense, but the Cavs still had to execute and make shots.
I thought the Cavs would buckle with 2:00 to go when they had the ball and a 2-point lead. Allen committed a turnover and the Pacers had a chance to tie the game. But they got a stop and Garland hit the 3 after Strus got us a second chance.
With 24 seconds left and the Cavs up by 3, Strus missed a 3-pointer but luckily Haliburton fouled him and that was the game.