INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Pacers snapped a five-game losing streak against the Portland Trailblazers on Thursday night with a 106-100 thrilling victory in front of Big Momma and Man-Man nem. That’s the home crowd just in case you’re scratching your head.
The first unit for the Pacers all scored in double figures as they try to literally build some chemistry together this late into the season. This starting five has only played together for about 100 minutes which is only like three games.
The Pacers have just the last four out of five games as they gain some familiarity with one another. Victor Oladipo has only played in nine games so far this season.
Nate McMillan understands that his team is still trying to figure out who they are and being consistent is the key. “Tonight was about being consistent and really establishing ourselves, especially that first unit. That group has only played about 100 minutes together this season. That’s about three games, so it was really about them working on an identity.”
Well playas, that they did against the Trailblazers who were without Dame Dollar. Domantas Sabonis led them with 20 points and 11 rebounds bring once again the double-double machine. Malcolm Brogdon dropped off 17 points as both Victor Oladipo and TJ Warren scored 15 apiece.
Oladipo lit up in the third quarter scoring 12 of his 15 in that period. Myles Turner came through with 14 points and 10 rebounds on his way to Big Momma’s house. They even got 11 points off of the bench from Justin Holiday.
It wasn’t an easy win for the Pacers even though Dame Dollar wasn’t on the floor for Portland. They came in with shooters like the Carter. CJ McMollum lit them up for 28 shootin’ that thang from everywhere but the parking lot. He was going nuts to keep it interesting.
Since losing six straight Indiana seems to be purring like a kitten winning their last four of five like I mentioned earlier. Up next they roll into Cleveland on Saturday. They should be a win if they don’t fall asleep at the wheel.
