NBA Playoffs: Raptors vs. Pacers Game 5 recap, full highlights
The Indiana Pacers won a pivotal Game 5 on the road against the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday night.
For the seven consecutive quarters, the Toronto Raptors did not have a lead in the first round of the NBA Playoffs against the Indiana Pacers. In the fourth quarter on Tuesday night, the Raptors went on a tear that ignited the Air Canada Centre and had the Pacers on their heels, as they came back from a big deficit to tie the game.
Behind the strength of their bench, the Raptors went on a 17-2 run and the Pacers, who had a double-digit lead, didn’t look like they could do anything to stop the momentum of the Raptors.
While DeMar DeRozan struggled in Game 4 of the first round, he really was a catalyst in Game 5, while his running mate, Kyle Lowry, struggled.
Just like the last game between the two sides, this one was chippy as well again and this time, it was the stars in Paul George and Lowry going at it. As the two fought for a basketball on the floor, George had his arm rolled up on by Lowry and he didn’t like that. George would get up and bump Lowry and would receive a technical.
It’s clear that the Raptors weren’t going to roll over again and let the Pacers try and steal the game. With four minutes left in the fourth, DeRozan hit a huge three to give the Raptors their first lead of the night and their first lead since Game 3. DeRozan would then find Cory Joseph for three and suddenly, the Raptors were up by six.
Solomon Hill had a chance to force overtime but his shot was after time expired and the Raptors held on for the win and take the 3-2 series lead.
Full Highlights
Three Stars
3. Bismack Biyombo
Biyombo did all the dirty work down low for the Raptors. He grabbed several rebounds and without his work down low, the Raptors don’t come back in this game.
2. Paul George
George had a huge night for the Pacers in a losing effort. He finished with 38 points, but his teammates couldn’t help him hold on for the win.
1. DeMar DeRozan
After having some games where he struggled in the series, DeMar DeRozan had the huge night that the Raptors needed. He scored 34 points in the huge win.
Betting Odds
The Raptors came into the game as 7..5-point favorites. With the close win, the Raptors did not cover the spread.
What’s Next?
The two teams will meet for Game 6 in Indianapolis on Friday night.
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