For the first time in these playoffs, the Indiana Pacers find themselves trailing in the series against the Cleveland Cavaliers. That’s after Lance Stephenson and company absorbed a 98-95 road loss against LeBron James and the Cavs in Game 5 on Wednesday.
The Pacers could have actually ended the game on top had Victor Oladipo’s layup attempt with under five seconds on the game clock was not blocked by James – or if the latter was called for a goaltending violation to be specific. If it was called a goaltend, the Pacers would be up by two points, changing the complexion of the game.
Following Indiana’s loss, Lance Stephenson was asked about his thoughts on James’ rejection of Oladipo’s shot, per Fox Sports Indiana.
Lance on LeBron's block on Oladipo: "CLEARLY goaltending." #Pacers pic.twitter.com/vyleYpozS7
— Bally Sports Indiana (@BallySportsIN) April 26, 2018
Reporter: “Last possession, the Pacers had the ball. Did you think that was goaltending?”
Stephenson: “Of course. I think it was goaltending. We should have gotten the ref’s attention and just told him. But I don’t know what to say about that.”
Reporter: “Why didn’t you get that call?”
Stephenson: “Come on guys. It was clearly goaltending. I’m disappointed, but hey, we got to take care [of business] at home.”
While James hit a game-winning 3-pointer on the other end to deliver the win for the Cavs, that might not be how things turned out if Oladipo’s layup was counted.
There’s no way for Indiana to change the outcome of the game, however, so the Pacers will have to forget what happened in Game 5 and lay it all out in Game 6 this coming Friday at home. The Cavs now lead the series, 3-2.
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