The Cleveland Cavaliers couldn’t establish their game in the loss to the Indiana Pacers.
While the score wasn’t that lopsided and they were still right there for most of the game, they were never in control.
More than that, the Pacers set the tone with attitude and character, and it looked like the Cavs just weren’t prepared for that.
Notably, that’s why Tony Rizzo is a little concerned about this series.
Talking on ESPN Cleveland’s “The Really Big Show,” the renowned pundit expressed concerns about the Pacers’ physicality.
“I’m a little concerned about this series right now,” Rizzo said.
"I'm a little concerned about this series right now," – @TheRealTRizzo on Cavs/Pacers.
Do you agree? pic.twitter.com/3gWdRANoep
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) May 6, 2025
He pointed out that even De’Andre Hunter and Evan Mobley got banged up in Game 1, which speaks volumes about how the Pacers manhandled them and imposed their will.
Hunter is currently listed as questionable with a sprained right thumb, while Mobley is also questionable with an ankle injury.
Darius Garland has missed the past three games with a toe injury, and he’s not expected to be back on the court for Game 2.
Of course, it’s still way too early to sound the alarms or think the Cavs are out of the series, but the early signs are most definitely worrisome.
The Cavs can’t afford to have Donovan Mitchell put up 30 shots a night.
They might not be a run-and-gun offense like the Pacers, who run the fastest tempo in the league.
However, they can’t afford to be outhustled.
As for the players, everybody’s banged up at this point in the season, and they will have to play through the pain to help their team.
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