Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson has expressed his concerns regarding officiating and the physical play exhibited by the Indiana Pacers during the Eastern Conference semifinals. Following both Game 1 and Game 2, Atkinson voiced his frustration over what he perceived as excessive physicality that wasn’t penalized effectively, highlighting that certain uncalled fouls led to injuries for key players Evan Mobley and De’Andre Hunter, who both missed Game 2.
Atkinson noted he reported three specific plays from Game 1 to the NBA for review, emphasizing that players were being held and grabbed aggressively, impeding his team’s movement and separation on the court. He clarified that he does not believe the Pacers are playing dirty or intentionally trying to injure his players, a sentiment echoed by Pacers coach Rick Carlisle. While Carlisle understood Atkinson’s viewpoint, he pointed out that the foul statistics did not support the narrative of unfair officiating, as the Pacers committed 26 fouls compared to the Cavs’ 21 and allowed the Cavaliers to take 35 free throws, with Donovan Mitchell alone going to the line 21 times.
Carlisle emphasized the need for his team to maintain their competitive spirit despite the discrepancies in fouls and free throws. He suggested that both teams must focus on their gameplay rather than getting caught up in officiating discussions, indicating that maintaining an edge is crucial at this level of postseason competition.
This exchange between the coaches underlines the intensity and physicality of playoff basketball, revealing the fine line teams must navigate between aggressive play and fairness in officiating. The series appears to be heating up, with both teams eager to secure a win as the competition continues.