Key Highlights
- Pacers set a new franchise record with 22 three-pointers in a playoff game.
- Bobby Portis ejected early in Game 4, impacting the Bucks’ lineup severely.
- Myles Turner shines with a career-high seven 3-pointers, totaling 29 points.
- The series heads back to Milwaukee for Game 5, with the Pacers leading 3-1.
(MomentaNews) – The Milwaukee Bucks, already limping from the absence of stars Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, faced a further setback in Sunday’s critical playoff Game 4 against the Indiana Pacers. The ejection of Bobby Portis, following a first-quarter scuffle, left the Bucks severely undermanned. Despite a valiant effort from the remaining players, the Pacers capitalized, especially from beyond the arc, setting a franchise record for three-pointers in a playoff game. This shooting prowess provided them a substantial lead in the series, now poised at 3-1 as they head back to Milwaukee.
Game 4 Breakdown: A Closer Look at the On-Court Drama
The game’s tone was set early with Bobby Portis’ ejection, a significant moment that tilted the scales in favor of the Indiana Pacers. Portis, involved in a scuffle with Pacers’ guard Andrew Nembhard, was assessed two technical fouls and ejected for his aggressive actions, which included a slap to the back of Nembhard’s head. This incident left the Bucks without a key player who had been filling in admirably for the injured Antetokounmpo.
Following the ejection, the Pacers took advantage of the disrupted Bucks lineup. Tyrese Haliburton converted a technical free throw, and the Pacers began to pull away, particularly with their exceptional three-point shooting. Myles Turner, often known for his defensive prowess, stole the spotlight with a career-high seven three-pointers, contributing significantly to the Pacers’ record-setting 22 made three-pointers. The Pacers’ sharpshooting not only demoralized the Bucks but also shifted the momentum firmly in their favor as the game progressed.
Key Performances and Tactical Adjustments
Despite the setback, the Bucks’ remaining players, led by Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez, kept the game competitive. Middleton, thriving in an expanded role due to the team’s injury woes, put up 25 points and captured 10 rebounds, showcasing his capability as a leader on the floor. Lopez, matching the intensity, led the team with 27 points. Their efforts kept the Bucks within striking distance until the Pacers’ third-quarter surge widened the gap.
The Pacers’ strategic focus on three-point shooting was evident. Aside from Turner, Haliburton and Nembhard also contributed significantly from beyond the arc, with the team collectively shooting an impressive 51.2% from three-point range. This strategy not only maximized their scoring efficiency but also exploited the gaps left by the Bucks’ missing defensive stalwarts, Lillard and Antetokounmpo.
Implications for Game 5 and Beyond
As the series shifts back to Milwaukee for Game 5, the Bucks face a daunting task. The status of Lillard and Antetokounmpo remains uncertain, and their absence could severely impact the team’s chances of staging a comeback. The Pacers, on the other hand, will look to maintain their offensive firepower and close out the series on the road. Their ability to keep turnover rates low, as demonstrated by Nembhard and McConnell’s error-free assist tally, will be crucial in maintaining their lead and securing a spot in the next round of the playoffs.
The Bucks, historically resilient, are not out of options yet. The home-court advantage and the potential return of their star players could provide the boost needed to overturn the series deficit. However, the Pacers’ current form and strategic execution make them formidable opponents, poised to advance unless Milwaukee can alter the series’ trajectory in Game 5.