In a Sunday showdown, Myles Turner scored a season-high 34 points, leading the Indiana Pacers to a 119-110 victory over the Miami Heat. Turner’s dominant performance in the paint, combined with a double-double from Bennedict Mathurin, helped Indiana avenge Friday’s loss to the Heat and improve their early-season momentum.
The Pacers were bolstered by Mathurin’s 21 points and 12 rebounds, while Pascal Siakam added 23 points, and Tyrese Haliburton chipped in with 16 points and 13 assists. Indiana shot an impressive 52% from the field and dominated the paint, outscoring Miami 62-28.
For the Heat, Tyler Herro led the charge with 28 points, and Bam Adebayo added 24 in the absence of six-time All-Star Jimmy Butler, sidelined with a sprained ankle. The Heat, now 5-7, also lost rookie Jaime Jaquez to a sprained right ankle in the third quarter, further complicating their injury-riddled start to the season.
After being “ashamed” of Friday’s 124-111 loss to a similarly Butler-less Heat, Pacers coach Rick Carlisle saw a marked improvement from his squad. Indiana never trailed in the rematch, thanks in part to their ability to share the ball—30 of their 44 field goals came off assists. Haliburton and T.J. McConnell combined for 18 of those, a stark contrast to Miami’s team-high four assists.
While Haliburton continued his shooting struggles (39.3% from the field this season), he stepped up in the fourth quarter. After Miami tied the game at 97, Haliburton drained back-to-back three-pointers to spark the Pacers’ closing push.
Miami’s injury woes deepened with the loss of Jaime Jaquez. While X-rays on his ankle were negative, the Heat can ill afford more setbacks with Butler’s status uncertain and a tough schedule looming. Butler may return Monday, as the Heat begin a three-game homestand against the Philadelphia 76ers.
Bennedict Mathurin continues to shine as he grows into his starting role, filling in for the injured Aaron Nesmith. Mathurin has now scored at least 20 points in four of his last six games, showcasing his potential as a reliable wing for Indiana.
Haliburton’s Redemption. Despite a rough shooting night, Haliburton’s timely fourth-quarter triples helped Indiana secure the win. Assists Over Isolation: Indiana’s unselfish play was on full display, with 68% of their baskets assisted compared to Miami’s 47%. Paint Domination: The Pacers outscored Miami 62-28 in the paint, highlighting their physicality and Turner’s inside presence.
Indiana will look to maintain their momentum as they visit Toronto on Monday, while the Heat hope to regroup and heal as they host the Philadelphia 76ers.
