The funny thing about all the talk about the Pacers being frontrunners is they've actually been better in tough games. When they should be front-running is when things have seemed the hardest.
Up 3-1, and with Bucks' medical bill approaching the GDP of a small nation, everyone expects the Pacers to advance to the second round. They should advance. But there's that word again. The disconnect between what should happen and what actually happens on the court has flummoxed Pacers fans all year.
A core made up of young players getting their first real run in the playoffs has to close out a veteran team that won a championship only three years ago. That's not a small task. The Pacers have to be laser focused tonight if they want to live up to expectations.
And it's important they do. Sure, they have a healthy cushion right now... but series math can change in a flash. Lose tonight and Game 6 becomes an incredibly tense affair. Just ask the Warriors.
The truth is the Pacers have been very lucky this series, starting with the fact Giannis Antetokoumpo has yet to play. That changes tonight, as the Greek Freak attempts a comeback.
Even at half-strength, he can barrel his way into the lane and draw fouls. Teams that live at the line have been a tough matchup for the Pacers because it prevents them from running their opponents into the ground. With Scott Foster reffing tonight, we shouldn't expect to see a free flowing game.
Long story short, the Pacers need to do whatever it takes to win Game 5. They need to smother whatever hope the Bucks have before it takes root. They can't let momentum slip from their grasps.
They need to be killers.
Injuries
Dame is out tonight. Haliburton is questionable but likely playing.
How to Watch
Get your naps in, tonight is going late for the locals and fellow ET residents.
Tipoff is at 9:30 PM ET.
TV: TNT, Bally Sports Indiana, NBA League Pass
Radio: 93.5/107.5 The Fan
See ya in the comments!
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