Siakam, Carlisle Promise Improvement After 'Embarrassing' Game 1

The Indiana Pacers faced a challenging start to their 2024 playoff journey, suffering a 109-94 defeat to the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday night. The loss was particularly disheartening given their lackluster performance in the first half. Despite the overall team struggles, Pascal Siakam emerged as a standout player, delivering what might be his finest performance since joining the Pacers. In Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals, Siakam racked up 36 points on 15-25 shooting, including 1-4 from three-point range and 5-10 from the free-throw line. He also added 13 rebounds, two assists, two blocks, and one steal over 40 minutes.

Siakam's efforts made him the game's highest scorer, showcasing his determination to keep the Pacers in contention. His outstanding display becomes even more crucial as the Pacers aim to even the series in Game 2 before returning to their home court. With Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo out due to injury, Damian Lillard took the reins for Milwaukee, scoring 35 points in the first half alone. Despite not scoring in the second half, Lillard's early explosion was enough to secure the Bucks' victory.


Other Pacers players, like Myles Turner and TJ McConnell, also reached double figures with 17 and 10 points, respectively, but their combined 10-of-30 shooting highlighted the team's offensive challenges. Tyrese Haliburton, expected to play a significant role, ended the game with nine points, seven rebounds, and eight assists but committed three turnovers in 38 minutes.


His relatively subdued performance and the critique of being too passive against the Bucks have amplified the pressure on him and the team to respond more aggressively in the upcoming game.

Source Hardwood Heroics : Indiana Pacers: Pascal Siakam, Rick Carlisle Vow to be Better in Game 2 After ‘Embarrassing' Game 1 Vs. Milwaukee Bucks
Source CBS Sports : Pacers' Pascal Siakam: Leads all scorers in loss