Beech: Who do the Cleveland Cavaliers want to play in the First Round?

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CLEVELAND, OH – JANUARY 26: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives around Lance Stephenson #1 of the Indiana Pacers during the first half at Quicken Loans Arena on January 26, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /

Opponent No. 1: Indiana Pacers

Pros

The Cavs have a postseason psychological edge over the Pacers, as a result of the Cleveland Cavaliers sweeping the Indiana Pacers in the first round of the 2017 playoffs. The one thing the Pacers had going for them in that series was the high level of play from Paul George.

With George gone, the Pacers lack a superstar presence to counter that of LeBron James. Victor Oladipo is having a great year but does not pose quite the threat George did. History does tell us that LeBron James will prevail against Indiana.

Cons

The Pacers shoot 37.3% from beyond the arc, good for fifth in the NBA; the Cavs allow opponents to shoot 37.1% from three, which ranks 25^th in the league. If the Pacers can penetrate the lane and create open looks for shooters in the corners, then that could be a major problem for Cleveland.

The Pacers, who have demoralized the Cavs this season, can do that, but will the Cavs let them in the postseason?

Beech: Who do the Cleveland Cavaliers want to play in the first round?

By Sam Beech | Mar 15, 2018

Opponent No. 1: Indiana Pacers

Pros

Cons