Playing a bad team with its two best players out it seems like this should have been an easier win, instead of having to come from behind in the 4th.
Great D in that 4th quarter, however, holding them to 18 points. McConnel had a great game with 16 points and 5 assists for a +7 in 19 minutes.
I thought the Cavs' offense should have been better against the league's 29th scoring defense playing without their best defender. But the Pacers were very active and made the effort.
Mobley had 14 points, 16 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 blocks but he would be so much better if he had any touch from 3-10 feet. He misses so many shots in the short mid-range. But his defense is exceptional.
The Cavs' bench was outscored 41-21. I don't think they have the bench to go far in the playoffs. Rubio is useless. Cedi was -10 in 9 minutes. Stevens had two points, two rebounds, a turnover, and a foul in 12 minutes. LeVert was the only bench player who was worth anything.
Mitchell carried the Cavs on his back, scoring 40 points. He was a team high +16, followed by Mobley and Wade at +15. Wade was on the floor at crunch time which surprised me. He made his only 3-point attempt. Glad to see him getting minutes - ideally he's our starting small forward IMO.
Allen was not on the floor at crunch time. I wonder if JBB thinks the Cavs are better without he and Mobley on the floor at the same time. But Allen is coming off an injury and they may have just wanted to limit his minutes.
The Knicks won so the magic number is still one.