So game one of the Philadelphia vs Indiana series is in the books and of course it didn't disappoint!
The
outcome was to be expected though as the Sixers got over the line at
home by 9 points (102-111) in a measured and consistent performance
across four quarters. The Sixers came home strong outscoring the Pacers
by 6 points in the second half shooting 46.7%. The game was won in the
paint with the Sixers outscoring the Pacers by 26, a few
uncharacteristic TO's here and there for the Pacers coupled with some
missed opportunities scoring from range (10/29 from 3pt land) sealed the
deal. While the Pacers Bench provided 34 points from the pine, the
Sixers starting five walked all over Indiana ruining Griffins solid come
back performance.
The key factor here was the Sixers ability to
bring Leonard off the bench; Lighting up the second unit for 21 points
and 6 rebounds while shooting 60% from the field and going perfect from
the line (7/7) in just 27 minutes. Other note worthy performances from
C.J. McCollum with 31 points who has been huge ever since he was given a
starting role. Along with LaMarcus Aldrige who had 17 points and 19
rebounds including 7 on the offensive end, was in the end the game
changer. Jamal Crawford was of course solid for the Pacers as he has
been all year, contributing 29 points and continuing his free throw hot
streak that in the end just wasn't enough.
In a sick twist of
events it seems that
Blake Griffin at some point re-injured his quad,
which had limited him to only 24 games all year already. At this point
its unclear on the severity of the injury and if he will be available
for the rest of the playoffs let alone the series. Griffin was asked
about his status post game to which he replied; "I don't care whats
going on with me at the moment, if i can walk then ill be suiting up for
game two... I'm not prepared to just leave my team high and dry again".
Proud words from the franchise star but the Pacers will have to assess
what is best for the organisation both in the present and future. The
decision will hinge largely on the outcome of game two which will tip
off this Thursday at 8pm.
Stay tuned!...
