Pacers survive late rally, defeat Timberwolves
By TYLER SMITH
ISL Editor
INDIANAPOLIS — After a 37 point second quarter, it looked like the Pacers were going to cruise to victory over Minnesota on Friday night. The Timberwolves put together a big rally to make things very interesting late in the game, and even had the ball with a chance to take the lead. In the end, the Pacers survived and won for the sixth time in seven games, 107-103 at Bankers Life Fieldhouse.
Monta Ellis has had a rough start to his Pacers career by his standards. On this night, however, the real Monta Ellis was in the building. He finished with 24 points on 11-of-17 shooting, and made some huge plays down the stretch on both ends of the floor.
“That’s why he’s here,” Paul George said after the win. “He’s here to make those plays and seal the game for us.”
Coach Frank Vogel added: “It’s exciting to be able to put the ball in his hands. Obviously he’s a great competitor. And his defensive play showed a competitive spirit and knowing how to win a ballgame.”
Paul George continued his hot stretch as well, with 29 points and nine rebounds. It was the sixth straight game that George has scored at least 26 points. “I don’t know why it’s so surprising,” George said with a laugh. “I’ve prepared and am always ready to compete.”
The Timberwolves came into this game with a 4-0 record on the road. The Pacers were able to hand them their first road loss, despite the poor fourth quarter.
The Pacers had 23 assists and only turned the ball over 11 times. Four Indiana players had at least four assists in this game. When they share the basketball to go along with two elite scorers, they’ll be difficult to guard.
After an 0-3 start, the Pacers now find themselves at 6-4 on the season.
“I feel like this is who we are,” Coach Vogel said. “A team that goes on 6-1 type runs, more-so than the team that had the 0-3 start.”
The Pacers will look to keep things rolling with a road game against the Chicago Bulls on Monday night at the United Center.
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