Cleveland Cavaliers Suffer First Loss in 2025 NBA Playoffs
The Cleveland Cavaliers have suffered their first loss in the 2025 NBA Playoffs, falling to the Indiana Pacers 121-112 in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference semi-finals series. According to NBA Analysis, the Cavaliers, who dominated the Miami Heat in the previous round, were expected to provide a tougher test for the Pacers.
The Pacers were led by Andrew Nembhard, who scored 23 points, and Tyrese Haliburton, who contributed 22 points and 13 assists. The Cavaliers, despite a strong performance from Donovan Mitchell, were unable to secure the win. Mitchell scored 31 points, but his efficiency was hampered by a poor shooting display, including 1-of-11 from three-point range.
In a notable achievement, Mitchell surpassed Michael Jordan’s NBA Playoff record with his eighth straight game of at least 30 points in a postseason series opener. This feat was achieved with a layup with 4:51 remaining in regulation. As reported by NBA Analysis, Mitchell’s record dates back to his time with the Utah Jazz, specifically during the 2020 NBA Bubble.
Mitchell, however, was not celebrating the milestone, instead focusing on the loss. “Jordan won Game 1, you know? I mean, it’s always great to be in great company. But man, we lost,” Mitchell said, as quoted by NBA Analysis. “I shot 30 times. Like I said, I’ll be better. That’s not something I come into. I always try to be aggressive to start a series. But Jordan won Game 1 — I didn’t.”
The Cavaliers will look to bounce back in Game 2, scheduled for May 6. As noted by NBA Analysis, Mitchell and his team will be eager to even the series and regain momentum.
In related news, the Pacers’ victory was a significant upset, given the Cavaliers’ dominant performance in the previous round. As reported by NBA Analysis, the Cavaliers’ win over the Miami Heat was a four-game sweep, highlighting their strength in the Eastern Conference.
The series between the Cavaliers and Pacers is expected to be closely contested, with both teams vying for a spot in the NBA Finals. According to NBA Analysis, the Cavaliers will need to regroup and adjust their strategy to overcome the Pacers and advance to the next round.
In conclusion, the Cleveland Cavaliers’ loss to the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference semi-finals series has set up an intriguing matchup. With Donovan Mitchell surpassing Michael Jordan’s NBA Playoff record, the stage is set for an exciting series. As noted by NBA Analysis, the Cavaliers will look to bounce back and even the series in Game 2.
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