Early Ejection Sparks Tension
Bennedict Mathurin’s Game 4 lasted just one minute.
The Indiana Pacers guard was ejected for a flagrant foul 2 after striking Cleveland Cavaliers forward De’Andre Hunter in the midsection during an inbound sequence. Officials deemed the contact “unnecessary and excessive,” and the game took a sharp emotional turn early.
Hunter, returning from a thumb injury originally caused by Mathurin in Game 1, responded with visible frustration, pointing at Mathurin before shoving him to the floor. Pacers center Myles Turner quickly stepped in, and both he and Hunter were assessed technical fouls.
Rick Carlisle: “It’s a Learning Experience”
“Whatever happened, happened,” Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said postgame. “He’ll accept the ejection and whatever else happens from it… It’s a learning experience. Playoff series are physical. They’re chippy. They’re personal.”
Despite losing Mathurin immediately, Indiana didn’t flinch. The Pacers exploded to a 38-23 first-quarter lead and controlled the game throughout, earning a 129-109 win and a commanding 3-1 series lead.
Cavaliers Respond — But Fall Short
Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson pointed to the series’ escalating physicality, citing the Game 1 collision that injured Hunter.
“It’s been building,” Atkinson said. “We just have to keep our focus and respond the right way.”
The Cavaliers were unable to rally, falling behind early and never recovering. Hunter’s return was overshadowed by the altercation and Indiana’s wire-to-wire dominance.
What’s Next: Game 5 in Cleveland
The series now shifts back to Cleveland for Game 5. The Cavaliers face elimination and will need to regroup after two lopsided road losses. Mathurin’s availability remains in question pending league review of the flagrant 2.
Whether suspension or fine follows, Indiana proved they can respond to adversity — and respond with force.
