Pacers secure playoff home-court advantage with 114-112 win over Cavaliers

The Indiana Pacers secured a thrilling 114-112 victory over the short-handed Cleveland Cavaliers, with Tyrese Haliburton leading the charge by scoring 23 points and delivering 10 assists. This win marks the Pacers' sixth consecutive victory and guarantees them a top-four seed and home-court advantage in the playoffs for the first time in a decade. Haliburton's pivotal fourth-quarter performance, including back-to-back three-pointers, helped Indiana overcome a late deficit, while Aaron Nesmith contributed 22 points. Despite resting four starters, the Cavaliers showcased strong bench depth, with Ty Jerome leading their scoring efforts with 24 points. Coach Kenny Atkinson was ejected late in the third quarter, but the Cavaliers' bench play sent a clear message about their playoff potential. The Pacers are now just one win away from their first 50-win season since 2014-15.