Caris LeVert and Jarrett Allen both contributed 23 points each as the undermanned Cleveland Cavaliers held off a late rally from the Indiana Pacers to secure a 108-103 victory on Monday night.
Despite missing three regular starters, including standout guard Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland managed to maintain their position among the top three seeds in the Eastern Conference.
Cleveland maintained a lead of up to nine points in the final quarter, but Indiana managed to draw level with just over two minutes remaining. However, a crucial 9-foot fadeaway jumper from LeVert put Cleveland back in the lead, and the Pacers failed to score again.
LeVert, who also tallied 11 assists and eight rebounds, expressed confidence in his ability to perform under pressure. Allen contributed nine rebounds to the victory.
The Cavaliers’ defensive effort was instrumental in securing the win, according to LeVert, as they limited the Pacers to 103 points despite their offensive prowess.
Mitchell, sidelined by a lingering left knee bruise, was joined on the bench by Evan Mobley and Max Strus due to injury. To bolster the roster, Cleveland signed veteran forward Marcus Morris Sr. to a 10-day contract, and he made an immediate impact with 14 points off the bench.
Cavaliers coach J.B. Bickerstaff commended his team’s toughness, resilience, and unity in overcoming adversity throughout the game.
For the Pacers, Pascal Siakam led the scoring with 19 points and 12 rebounds, while Tyrese Haliburton added 14 points and 12 assists. T.J. McConnell contributed 14 points off the bench.
The loss dropped the Pacers to the seventh seed in the conference standings, with the Philadelphia 76ers moving ahead following their victory over the Miami Heat.
Despite showing glimpses of fight, Pacers coach Rick Carlisle lamented the lack of consistency from his team, particularly in crucial moments.
Indiana had built a significant lead in the second quarter but struggled to maintain it, with a scoreless stretch allowing the Cavaliers to mount a comeback and tie the game before halftime.
Looking ahead, Carlisle emphasized the need for his team to remain positive and hungry as they aim to improve their performance in upcoming games.