NBA Playoffs Heats Up: Thunder Even Series, Pacers Dominate
Table of Contents
- NBA Playoffs Heats Up: Thunder Even Series, Pacers Dominate
- Pacers Dominate Cavaliers in Game 4, Lead Series
- Pacers Ignite Offense, Dominate Early Against cavaliers in Game 4
- NBA Playoffs: High Stakes as Cavaliers battle Pacers; Thunder Answer Back
- Thunder Even Series Against Nuggets in Thrilling Game 4 Victory
- Nuggets Mount Comeback Against Thunder in Game 4, Eye Series Lead
- Thunder Strike First, Nuggets Battle Back in Tense Playoff Matchup
- Conference Semifinals Heat up: thunder Face Nuggets,Cavaliers Battle Pacers in Pivotal Game 4s
Published:
Eastern Conference Showdown: Pacers on the Brink
The Indiana Pacers delivered a resounding performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers, seizing a commanding 3-1 lead in their series. From the opening tip-off, Indiana displayed relentless energy, culminating in a 129-109 victory. Their offensive explosion in the first half saw them rack up an astounding 80 points, shooting an remarkable 60% from the field. The Pacers’ ball movement was equally impressive, as they dished out a playoff-record 25 assists in the first two quarters alone.
Adding insult to injury for Cleveland,Donovan Mitchell suffered an ankle injury during the second-half warmups,sidelining him for the remainder of the game. His availability for Game 5 remains uncertain, pending an MRI examination. The Pacers now stand on the cusp of advancing, with an chance to close out the series in Cleveland on Tuesday.
PACERS’ WIRE-TO-WIRE WIN LEAVES THEM 1 WIN AWAY FROM THE EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS 🙌
NBA (@nba)
Key Performers Fuel Pacers’ Surge
- Pascal Siakam: A highly efficient 21 points, shooting 9-10 from the field, along with six rebounds and three assists.
- Myles Turner: Contributed 20 points, showcasing his range by hitting 4-4 from beyond the arc, while also grabbing seven rebounds and dishing out three assists.
- Obi Toppin: Provided a spark off the bench with 20 points on 9-14 shooting, complemented by five rebounds and two assists.
Western Conference Battle: Thunder Strike Back
In a pivotal Western Conference matchup, the Oklahoma City Thunder overcame adversity to defeat the Denver Nuggets 92-87, evening their series at 2-2.Facing a near must-win situation, the Thunder demonstrated resilience, particularly in the fourth quarter. Trailing in the series, Oklahoma City needed a spark, and they found it in the final frame, outscoring Denver 29-18.
An 11-0 run, highlighted by two clutch three-pointers from cason Wallace, propelled the Thunder ahead 75-73 with 8:35 remaining. Oklahoma City maintained their lead,securing a crucial victory that shifts home-court advantage back in their favor. Game 5, now a critical contest in this best-of-three scenario, is scheduled for Tuesday in Oklahoma City.
Standout Performances
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Led the Thunder with 25 points, along with six rebounds, six assists, and two steals.
- Nikola Jokić: dominated for the Nuggets with 27 points, 13 rebounds, three assists, and four steals.
Looking ahead: Key Matchups and Series Implications
As the NBA Playoffs intensify, both the Thunder-Nuggets and Pacers-Cavaliers series promise further excitement. The Thunder’s ability to contain Jokić and exploit their home-court advantage will be crucial in Game 5. Simultaneously occurring,the Pacers aim to capitalize on Mitchell’s potential absence and their offensive firepower to secure a series victory in Cleveland. These upcoming games will undoubtedly shape the landscape of the NBA Playoffs.
Pacers Dominate Cavaliers in Game 4, Lead Series
A commanding performance puts Indiana one win away from the Conference Finals.
Indiana Pacers Assert Dominance, Secure Commanding Lead
The Indiana Pacers delivered a resounding performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers, establishing a critically important lead and ultimately securing a decisive victory. The Pacers’ ball movement and offensive efficiency proved too much for the Cavaliers to handle, putting them in a commanding position in the series.
statement win.#PacersWin pic.twitter.com/5LDZAgGAt2
Cavaliers Struggle on Both Ends of the Court
Cleveland faced difficulties on both offence and defense. Their struggles were compounded by an ankle injury to Donovan Mitchell during halftime warmups, which prevented him from returning to the game. The Cavaliers’ offensive woes were evident in their low shooting percentage and high turnover count.
While they managed to find some rhythm in the third quarter,scoring 38 points,it wasn’t enough to close the gap. They entered the fourth quarter trailing substantially, 109-77.
Pacers’ Offensive Firepower Too Much for Cleveland
Indiana’s offense was firing on all cylinders, showcasing exceptional ball movement and accurate shooting. The team’s ability to find open players behind the arc and execute cuts to the rim kept the Cavaliers’ defense on its heels. A prime example was a well-executed pass from T.J. McConnell to Obi Toppin, resulting in an easy basket.
PACERS BALL MOVEMENT 👌
Indiana wants that 3-1 series lead!
📺 Game 4 on TNT pic.twitter.com/lKYsN0e2H7
First-Half Domination: Pacers Lead by 41
The Pacers established a commanding 41-point lead in the first half, showcasing their offensive prowess. They shot an impressive 60% from the field (30-for-50) and a remarkable 66.7% from three-point range (12-for-18). myles Turner was particularly effective,sinking all four of his three-point attempts and contributing 18 points.
MYLES TURNER CAN’T MISS 😱 pic.twitter.com/cCukyUkKbO
In stark contrast, the Cavaliers struggled to generate offense, making only eight field goals and shooting a dismal 25% from the field. They also committed 14 turnovers. While they managed to draw fouls and convert 18 free throws, it wasn’t enough to offset their offensive struggles.
Obi Toppin’s Highlight-Reel Performance
Obi Toppin contributed significantly to the Pacers’ offensive onslaught, highlighted by a stunning up-and-under reverse layup. Toppin led all scorers with 13 points in the first half,showcasing his offensive versatility and athleticism.
THE TOUCH ON
Pacers Ignite Offense, Dominate Early Against cavaliers in Game 4
By Archynetys News Team
Early Onslaught: Pacers Surge Ahead
The indiana Pacers have come out firing on all cylinders in Game 4 against the Cleveland Cavaliers.From the opening tip, the Pacers established a commanding presence, showcasing an offensive masterclass that left the Cavaliers struggling to keep pace. The Pacers closed the first quarter with a significant 38-23 lead, setting the tone for a perhaps decisive victory.
Tyrese Haliburton goes crosscourt to obi Toppin for three 🎯 pic.twitter.com/0uypoq1pdE
Indiana’s offensive efficiency has been remarkable, boasting a 53.8% shooting percentage from the field and an impressive 60% from beyond the arc in the early stages. This hot shooting is fueled by exceptional ball movement and a keen eye for finding the open man, a testament to the Pacers’ cohesive teamwork.
too quick 💨
Tyrese Haliburton gets to the hoop. pic.twitter.com/f7uUuZ95vJ
Siakam’s Scoring Spree Fuels Second-Quarter run
The Pacers continued their offensive dominance into the second quarter, initiating a 10-0 run before Max Strus managed to break the streak with a three-pointer for the Cavaliers. Pascal Siakam was instrumental in this surge, personally scoring eight consecutive points to start the quarter.His scoring versatility,demonstrated by a pair of three-pointers and a mid-range jumper,highlights his importance to the Pacers’ offense.
Pascal Siakam is starting to cook ♨️
he scores 8 straight to open the second quarter. pic.twitter.com/iKHa44twza
Currently, the Pacers lead 48-26 a few minutes into the second quarter, showcasing their intent to control the game from start to finish. The Cavaliers face an uphill battle to contain the Pacers’ multifaceted attack.
Haliburton’s Breakaway Slam Starts the Game
The game began with immediate fireworks as pascal Siakam secured a loose ball and passed it to Tyrese Haliburton, who finished with a breakaway slam to open the scoring for the Pacers. This electrifying play set the tone for the Pacers’ aggressive start, contributing to an early 7-0 run and a 12-5 lead in the first quarter.
Haliburton slams it on the break to open the scoring in Game 4!
NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT)
Tensions Flare: Mathurin Ejected
Amidst the pacers’ strong performance, tensions flared between Bennedict Mathurin and De’Andre Hunter. The altercation resulted in a flagrant 2 foul and subsequent ejection for Mathurin. Such incidents can frequently enough shift the momentum of a game, and it remains to be seen how this will impact the Pacers’ strategy and performance for the remainder of the contest.
NBA Playoffs: High Stakes as Cavaliers battle Pacers; Thunder Answer Back
By Archnetys News Team | May 12, 2025
Eastern Conference Showdown: Cavaliers Aim to Steal Back Home-Court Advantage
The Cleveland cavaliers are locked in a fierce battle with the Indiana Pacers in the second round of the NBA playoffs.All eyes are on tonight’s game 4 in Indianapolis, a crucial contest with the series delicately poised. The Cavaliers are determined to reclaim home-court advantage by leveling the series before heading back to Cleveland.
Mitchell’s Monumental Performances
donovan Mitchell has been nothing short of spectacular in the past two games.Coming off consecutive performances where he scored over 40 points, including a staggering 48 points in Game 2 and 43 in the Cavaliers’ Game 3 victory, Mitchell’s offensive prowess is a key factor for Cleveland’s success.Can he continue his dominant scoring streak tonight? The Pacers’ defense will undoubtedly be focused on containing “Spida.”
SPIDA LOCKS IN LOOKING TO EVEN THE SERIES 😤
🆚 Cavs (1-2) Pacers
⏰ 8pm/et on TNT pic.twitter.com/J1jbfMFp1J— NBA (@nba) May 11, 2025
The game is set to tip-off shortly and will be broadcast on TNT, truTV, and available for streaming on Max. fans are eagerly anticipating what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Starting Lineups Announced for Game 4
both teams have revealed their starting lineups for this pivotal Game 4. no major surprises are in store, indicating that both coaches are sticking with their trusted combinations.
Cavaliers’ Starting five
The Cavaliers will start with a lineup featuring Darius Garland, Donovan Mitchell, Max Strus, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. This group provides a balance of scoring, playmaking, and interior defense.
ROUND 2,GAME 4 STARTERS. #LetEmKnow pic.twitter.com/9S80NLbRFP
— Cleveland Cavaliers (@cavs) May 11, 2025
Pacers’ Starting Five
The Pacers will counter with Tyrese Haliburton, Andrew Nembhard, Aaron Nesmith, Pascal Siakam, and Myles Turner. This lineup emphasizes pace, spacing, and versatility.
Game 4’s first five 💪 pic.twitter.com/e3Kq96yG1y
— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) May 11, 2025
western Conference Update: Thunder Strike Back Against Nuggets
In the Western Conference, the Oklahoma City Thunder demonstrated their resilience by securing a crucial victory against the Denver Nuggets in Game 4. The thunder’s 92-87 win evens the series at 2-2, shifting the momentum in their favor.
Gilgeous-Alexander Leads the Charge
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) spearheaded the Thunder’s effort, scoring a team-high 25 points. despite a tough night from beyond the arc (0-5 from three-point range),SGA managed to convert 8 of 19 field goals and 9 of 12 free throws. His all-around performance included 6 rebounds,6 assists,and 2 steals in 38 minutes of play. Notably, SGA scored 9 of his 25 points in the final quarter, showcasing his clutch performance under pressure. According to recent NBA statistics, SGA ranks among the top 10 players in fourth-quarter scoring this postseason.
Bench Contributions
Cason Wallace and Aaron Wiggins provided valuable contributions off the bench, each adding 11 points for OKC. their scoring output helped to supplement SGA’s performance and secure the win.
Thunder Even Series Against Nuggets in Thrilling Game 4 Victory
OKC’s Resilient Comeback Secures Crucial Road Win
The Oklahoma City Thunder demonstrated remarkable resilience, tying their series against the Denver Nuggets at 2-2 with a hard-fought road victory. After a tense battle, the Thunder capitalized on a dominant fourth quarter to seize control and secure the win. The series now shifts back to oklahoma City, with Game 5 scheduled for Tuesday at 9:30 PM ET [[1]].
SGA & THE THUNDER EVEN UP THE SERIES 2-2 ON THE ROAD!
⚡️ 25 PTS (9 in 4Q)
⚡️ 6 REB
⚡️ 6 AST
⚡️ 2 STLGame 5 in OKC: Tuesday, 9:30pm/et, TNT pic.twitter.com/dHPkLYVzA9
— NBA (@NBA) May 11, 2025
Fourth-Quarter Surge Propels Thunder to Victory
Denver struggled to maintain their momentum in the final quarter, scoring a mere 18 points while allowing 29. Their shooting faltered, with a 7-for-23 performance from the field and a dismal 1-for-12 from beyond the arc. This offensive drought proved costly as the Thunder surged ahead.
Key Performances
Shai Gilgeous-alexander led the charge for the Thunder, contributing 25 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists, and 2 steals. His clutch performance, particularly in the fourth quarter with 9 points, was instrumental in securing the win. Jalen Williams,alongside veteran Alex Caruso,added 10 points each,providing valuable contributions off the bench. The Thunder’s bench outscored the Nuggets 35-8,highlighting their depth and ability to impact the game.
For the nuggets, Nikola Jokić delivered a game-high 27 points, accompanied by 13 rebounds, 3 assists, and 4 steals. Though, his shooting efficiency was below his usual standards, going 7-for-22 from the field.Christian Braun and Jamal Murray each chipped in with 17 points, while Aaron Gordon recorded a near double-double with 15 points and 16 rebounds.
aaron Gordon’s triple makes it a one-possession game 👀 pic.twitter.com/1k5esoTg0h
— NBA TV (@NBATV) May 11, 2025
Turning Point: Wallace’s Spark Ignites Thunder Run
Rookie Cason Wallace played a pivotal role in the Thunder’s comeback, spearheading a 15-5 run in the fourth quarter. Wallace and Caruso, both contributing 11 points, provided stellar defense and crucial scoring off the bench.This surge allowed the Thunder to seize an 81-78 lead with just under five minutes remaining, shifting the momentum decisively in their favor.
Cason Wallace gives OKC the lead 🎯🎯
Part of a 10-0 run for the Thunder in the 4Q!
OKC ties the series with a win on ABC 👀 pic.twitter.com/fIGK3xSI5k
— NBA (@NBA) May 11, 2025
JOKER. SO TOUGH.
WE’RE ENTERING CRUNCH TIME ON ABC 🚨 pic.twitter.com/Bn4yrB4MBs
— NBA (@NBA) May 11,2025
Looking Ahead: Game 5 in Oklahoma City
With the series now tied,the Oklahoma City Thunder [[2]] return home to the Paycom Center [[2]] for a pivotal Game 5.The Thunder will look to capitalize on their home-court advantage and continue their playoff run [[3]].
Nuggets Mount Comeback Against Thunder in Game 4, Eye Series Lead
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A Tale of Two Halves: Thunder’s Early Dominance Fades
The Oklahoma City Thunder came out strong in Game 4, building a lead against the Denver Nuggets. However, their early momentum waned as the game progressed. Both teams struggled with shooting accuracy in the first half, each hitting only 13.6% of their three-point attempts (3-for-22) and under 35% from the field overall. The Nuggets managed to stay within striking distance by capitalizing on free-throw opportunities, converting 17 of 20 attempts (85%).
Shai Gilgeous-alexander led the Thunder’s charge in the first half, scoring 15 points on 5-for-11 shooting, while also grabbing 6 rebounds.Alex Caruso provided a spark off the bench, contributing 9 points in 12 minutes. Despite these efforts, the Thunder held a narrow 42-36 lead at halftime.
SGA TOUGH bucket +1 😤 pic.twitter.com/SHJhu278qn
NBA TV
Denver’s Third-Quarter Surge: A Turning Point
The third quarter witnessed a dramatic shift in momentum as the Denver Nuggets found their rhythm. Russell Westbrook ignited the Nuggets’ offense, sinking their seventh three-pointer of the quarter after a dismal 3-for-22 performance in the first half. This offensive surge propelled the Nuggets to outscore the Thunder 33-21 in the third, seizing their first lead of the game. The Thunder, in contrast, struggled, shooting just 7-for-21 from the field, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander remaining their sole player in double figures with 16 points.
Russell Westbrook splashes in Denver’s seventh 3-pointer of the third quarter after going 3-for-22 in the first half. The Nuggets grabbed their first lead of the game and outscored OKC 33-21 in the frame, and they take a 69-63 lead into the final quarter.
NBA
DRAINED IT pic.twitter.com/DMnZfzK8f6
Denver Nuggets
Nuggets Complete the Comeback: Key Performances
Fueled by the energy of Ball Arena, the Nuggets completed their comeback, taking their first lead of the night. Aaron Gordon’s timely three-pointer sent the crowd into a frenzy. Despite shooting under 30% overall for much of the game, the Nuggets’ resilience paid off. Gordon contributed 8 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists, while Nikola Jokić showcased his all-around game with 17 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, and a playoff career-high-tying 4 steals.
FIRST LEAD OF THE GAME FOR THE NUGGETS ⚒️
Joker steals it on one end.
AG drills the triple on the other.Denver seeking a 3-1 lead on ABC 🍿 pic.twitter.com/XGhSmxCaLx
NBA
As of the fourth quarter, with 10:26 remaining, Denver held a 73-69 advantage. The Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 16 points, struggled to find their offensive rhythm in the second half, shooting just 3-for-11 from the field. No other Thunder players had reached double figures at that point.
Thunder Strike First, Nuggets Battle Back in Tense Playoff Matchup
Early Struggles and Defensive Intensity Define First Half
The opening half of Sunday’s game between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Denver Nuggets was a masterclass in defensive intensity,though offensive rhythm proved elusive for both squads. The Thunder initially surged ahead, capitalizing on early shooting woes from the Nuggets. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) quickly established himself as a primary offensive threat for OKC, while Denver struggled to find consistent scoring.
As of the latest update, the Thunder hold a narrow lead. The Nuggets are fighting to close the gap, fueled by strong performances from key players. the game’s physicality and defensive focus are reminiscent of classic playoff battles,where every possession is fiercely contested.
Caruso finds Hartenstein for the ferocious flush 💥
OKC leading DEN in the 2Q of Game 4 on ABC! #nbaplayoffs presented by Google pic.twitter.com/0S0QKEV5Am
NBA
Individual Performances Spark Hope Amidst Offensive Drought
Despite the overall offensive struggles, individual performances shone through. SGA’s early scoring burst provided a crucial lift for the Thunder, while Jalen Williams contributed across the board with rebounds, assists, steals, and a block. For Denver, Jamal Murray led the scoring early, but the team’s overall shooting percentage remained low.
Nikola Jokić,despite a slow start in scoring,made his presence felt with rebounds and steals,showcasing his all-around impact. Christian Braun emerged as a key contributor for the Nuggets, converting free throws at an impressive rate.His ability to draw fouls and convert at the line provided a much-needed offensive spark for Denver.
SGA with the midrange bucket 💯
He’s got 5 early points for OKC!
NBA
Jokić and Braun Lead Denver’s Charge
As the game progressed, Nikola Jokić and Christian braun stepped up to lead the Denver Nuggets’ offensive efforts.Both players reached 11 points, with an impressive combined free-throw shooting performance. Jokić also contributed significantly in other areas, showcasing his versatility with rebounds, assists, and steals. His ability to impact the game in multiple facets is crucial for Denver’s success.
Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon added to the scoring, but Denver’s focus remained on tightening their defense and capitalizing on opportunities in transition. The Nuggets are aiming to seize control of the series with a commanding lead, and their performance in the second half will be critical.
Smooth with it pic.twitter.com/YPNjGRCMom
Denver Nuggets
Jokić drills the step-through 3 and gets the crowd HYPED going into the half 🤩
We’ve got a 6-point game at the break!
NBA
Hartenstein’s Impact and Thunder’s Early Advantage
Isaiah Hartenstein’s strong play,including a powerful dunk,helped the Thunder establish an early lead. Oklahoma City’s defense stifled Denver’s offense, leading to a double-digit advantage. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring prowess and Chet Holmgren’s rebounding dominance further fueled the Thunder’s momentum.
However, the Nuggets demonstrated resilience, battling back to narrow the gap. The game’s intensity and physicality are characteristic of playoff basketball, where every possession is crucial. As the series progresses, both teams will need to adjust their strategies and capitalize on their strengths to gain an edge.
Looking Ahead: Adjustments and Key Matchups
With the series far from decided, both the Thunder and the Nuggets will need to make adjustments to their game plans. Denver will likely focus on improving their three-point shooting and finding ways to unlock their offense. Oklahoma City will aim to maintain their defensive intensity and continue to exploit mismatches on offense.
Key matchups to watch include the battle between Nikola Jokić and Chet Holmgren, as well as the perimeter duel between Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jamal Murray. The outcome of these matchups could significantly impact the series’ trajectory. As the NBA
playoffs intensify, expect both teams to leave it all on the court in pursuit of a championship.
Conference Semifinals Heat up: thunder Face Nuggets,Cavaliers Battle Pacers in Pivotal Game 4s
archynetys.com – May 12, 2025
Mother’s Day Showdowns: A Look at Today’s NBA Playoff Action
As the 2025 NBA Conference Semifinals intensify, today’s Game 4 matchups present crucial opportunities for teams to either even the series or establish a commanding lead. The Oklahoma City Thunder visit the Denver Nuggets, while the Cleveland Cavaliers clash with the Indiana Pacers. Both the Thunder and the Cavaliers are looking to tie their respective series before heading back to their home courts.
thunder Seek Road Redemption Against Nuggets
Oklahoma City aims to rebound after a tough 113-104 overtime loss to denver in Game 3. The Thunder’s star guard, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, struggled in the previous game, scoring 18 points on 7-for-22 shooting, along with 13 rebounds. For the Thunder to avoid falling into a 1-3 series deficit, Gilgeous-alexander will need to rediscover his scoring touch. Jalen Williams is coming off a career-high 32 points in Friday’s loss, and coach Mark Daigneault will surely want to keep him in attack mode.
On the other side, Denver’s Nikola Jokić, despite an inefficient shooting night (8-for-25), managed 20 points in Game 3. He was one of four Nuggets players to surpass the 20-point mark, highlighting Denver’s balanced offensive attack.the Nuggets,currently holding a 2-1 series lead,will look to capitalize on their home-court advantage.
Cavaliers Aim to Build Momentum Against Pacers
In the eastern Conference, the Cleveland Cavaliers visit the Indiana Pacers for a critical game 4. Cleveland is coming off a dominant 126-104 victory in Game 3, fueled by the return of key players darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and de’Andre Hunter, alongside a stellar 43-point performance from Donovan Mitchell. The Cavaliers will aim to carry this momentum into today’s game.
For the Pacers,Tyrese Haliburton will need to elevate his offensive game after a quiet Game 3,where he scored just 4 points with 5 assists. Indiana needs Haliburton to be more aggressive if they hope to regain the series lead and avoid falling behind 3-1.
Broadcast Facts
Game 4 between the Thunder and Nuggets will be broadcast on ABC.
📺 Game 4 on ABC pic.twitter.com/2zcHCarMOZ