The first quarter saw the Pacers push the ball on offense, particularly after Mavs turnovers or missed shots at the rim. In both situations, it’s tough for the defense to get back and set itself before the speedy Pacers would attack the lane, resulting in some easy buckets. Indy scored 11 points in transition in the opening frame and drove the ball into the lane on 15 possessions in the first quarter alone, scoring 22 paint points, and both numbers are too high for the Mavs’ liking. (The club was able to curb that drive rate later in the game.
The Fast Break: Mavs at Pacers
