Indiana Pacers: Is There Hope Heading Into Game 2?

The Indiana Pacers nearly stole Game 1 against the Cleveland Cavaliers, opening up a glimmer of hope heading to Game 2

The 7th seeded Indiana Pacers came up one play short of the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 1 of their opening round playoff series. The Cavs won Game 1 109-108, despite Indiana nearly stealing the game late.

Even though Paul George finished with 29 points, five rebounds and seven assists, it was C.J. Miles who ended up taking the game-winning shot as time expired. Miles’ shot fell two inches short, and the Cavs escaped.

However, George made it clear after the game that he needs to be the one taking the game’s final shot.

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"“I gave the ball up to try to soften them up to get the ball back. I talked to C.J. about it, in situations like that, I have to have the last shot.”"

Despite it all, you don’t get anything for being close. As the series continues in Game 2 in Cleveland, the Indiana Pacers will still be down 1-0 Monday. Question is, can the Pacers clean up their defensive mistakes from Game 1 in order to capitalize on possibly stealing homecourt advantage in Game 2?

That’s the first thing that needs to be fixed. Maybe the team realizes that switching off LeBron simply isn’t the way to go? Hey, it’s an idea.

On the offensive end, perhaps finding more minutes for Lance Stephenson wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world. Stephenson finished with a season-high 16 points. He also added seven rebounds and three assists.

Must Read: How The Cavs Escaped Indiana's Upset Bid In Game 1

Even though there were plenty of promising elements in Game 1 for the Pacers, they can’t afford to expect the same type of performance – especially on the defensive end – from the Cavs in Game 2. Because if they do, that’s when this series can get out of hand.

So, can the Indiana Pacers make the necessary adjustments to pull off the real upset in Game 2?