Pacers Edge Cavs 120-119 to Take 2-0 Playoff Lead

The Cleveland Cavaliers, despite being the top seed with 64 wins, are facing a challenging situation in the second round of the playoffs against the Indiana Pacers, trailing 0-2. The Pacers staged a remarkable comeback in Game 2, overcoming a seven-point deficit in the final minute, a rare feat in playoff history, by aggressively pushing the pace and increasing their shot attempts in the final quarter. Cleveland, missing key players Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De’Andre Hunter, initially held a lead with strong defense from Jarrett Allen but ultimately could not maintain it against Indiana's persistence. Commentary on the game reflects a debate on whether Cleveland's loss was a collapse or Indiana's comeback, with some reluctance to harshly criticize the Cavaliers. Meanwhile, Cleveland's coaching staff and players are searching for answers and adjustments as they prepare to face the Pacers again in Game 3. The series highlights the unpredictability and intense competition of the playoffs, with Indiana leveraging physicality and tempo to challenge Cleveland's dominance.