The Indiana Pacers currently hold a 2-1 series lead over the Cleveland Cavaliers, yet they face a significant challenge against Donovan Mitchell, who is showcasing an outstanding performance with an average of 41.3 points per game in the playoffs. His shooting percentage of 47.2 is notably higher than his season average of 44.3 percent, indicating that he is in top form.
For the Pacers to secure a victory in Game 4, stopping Mitchell is essential. In the previous game, he took 14 free throws, following a game with 21 attempts. This indicates that he is adept at driving to the rim and drawing fouls, emphasizing the need for the Pacers to tighten their interior defense.
Despite Mitchell’s prowess, he has struggled from beyond the arc against the Pacers, shooting just 22.6 percent from three-point range. With capable defenders like Aaron Nesmith, Andrew Nembhard, and Bennedict Mathurin, the team needs to focus on both perimeter and interior defense strategies.
The Pacers’ lineup includes players like Myles Turner, Pascal Siakam, and James Johnson, who can help in defending against Mitchell’s inside game. Johnson, known for his physical style of play, was put into Game 3 to gain minutes and potentially contribute to slowing down Mitchell. Rick Carlisle, the Pacers’ head coach, expressed that Johnson’s effort in practice warranted his time on the court.
ESPN commentator Cory Alexander suggested that Johnson might be utilized early in Game 4 to bring added physicality to the defense, which could be crucial in limiting Mitchell’s scoring opportunities and pushing for a commanding 3-1 lead.
In conclusion, while the Pacers have managed a lead in the series, the key to advancing further will hinge on their ability to control Mitchell’s offensive impact in the upcoming game.