Why Terry Pluto Calls the Cavs’ Performance ‘Embarrassing’ — A Deep Dive into the Team’s Struggles

CLEVELAND, Ohio – After a promising Game 3 win, the mood around Cavs fans has shifted from pride to embarrassment. The Cavs lost 129-109 to the Pacers in Game 4, putting them 3-1 down in the playoff series.

This defeat was alarming. In just the first half, the Cavs managed only eight field goals while committing 14 turnovers. By halftime, Indiana had built a staggering 41-point lead—the largest halftime margin in playoff history.

Evan Mobley hit a 3-pointer for the Cavs’ first basket but contributed little else, finishing with only three points. Jarrett Allen had a similar performance. In 15 minutes, he scored just two points and grabbed a mere one rebound. Together, the Cavs’ big men totaled five points and three rebounds in 35 minutes. This lack of effort stood out, especially since they had dominated inside just a game earlier.

What went wrong? The Cavs displayed poor ball handling, struggled with their passing, and seemed unfocused. They played as if this were a casual pickup game rather than a crucial playoff match. Shockingly, they appeared unaware of the Pacers’ intensity, especially on their home court after a loss in Game 3.

Adding to the Cavs’ woes, star player Donovan Mitchell struggled. Despite averaging 41 points in the previous three games, he scored only 12 points on 3-for-11 shooting before leaving with an ankle injury. His teammates failed to adapt or support him, and their ball movement stagnated, leading to rushed shots.

On the other side, the Pacers, under the guidance of veteran coach Rick Carlisle, have shown their strength. Carlisle has coached over 990 regular-season games and led the Pacers to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2024, demonstrating their potential. Since January 1, 2025, the Pacers have an impressive 34-14 record, making them a formidable opponent.

The game was not just a defeat for the Cavs, but also a reminder of their missed opportunity in Game 2, where they squandered a 21-point lead. With Game 5 on the horizon, the Cavs must regroup and show their resilience. Another performance like this could spell disaster for their season.

For more insights on player performance and coaching strategies, you can check the latest reports from ESPN.

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