The Indiana Pacers suffered their 13th consecutive defeat on Tuesday night, falling 120-116 to the Cleveland Cavaliers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse and establishing the longest losing streak in franchise history.
Early Control Slips Away
Indiana led by as many as nine points and held a 60-53 advantage at halftime, appearing poised to halt a slide that had already reached a dozen games. The momentum vanished after the break.
Cleveland Dominates Inside
The Cavaliers relied on size and patience, piling up 64 points in the paint and outrebounding the Pacers 57-43. Cleveland methodically closed the gap before seizing control in the final period.
Fourth-Quarter Turnaround
Cleveland outscored Indiana 36-23 in the fourth quarter. Guard Darius Garland delivered 14 of his 29 points in the final 12 minutes, securing the comeback.
Key Performances
• Jay Huff, Pacers: 20 points, including four three-pointers.
• Pascal Siakam, Pacers: 9-for-23 from the field.
• Darius Garland, Cavaliers: 29 points, 14 in the fourth quarter.
Historical Context
This marks the fourth time Indiana has lost at least 12 straight games, but the first time the streak has reached 13. At 6-31, the Pacers are on pace for just 13 victories—matching the 1998-99 Chicago Bulls for the fewest wins by a team one season removed from reaching the NBA Finals. The 2019-20 Golden State Warriors, who dipped to 15 wins after their Finals appearance, serve as the most recent comparison.
The Pacers will try to avoid a 14th consecutive loss when they return to action later this week.
Source: Hoops Wire
