Tyrese Haliburton and Buddy Hield started their first game as Pacers and might quite the first impression, helping Indiana out to a 74-63 halftime lead over the Cleveland Cavaliers.
The new Pacers got involved early. On Indiana's first possession, Hield found a streaking Oshae Brissett for a transition slam. The next trip down the floor, Haliburton got into the lane and swished a right-handed runner.
The Blue & Gold trailed 9-7 three minutes into Friday's contest before putting together their first prolonged run. Rookie guard Chris Duarte scored eight straight Indiana points, knocking down two 3-pointers as well as a layup off a dish from Haliburton.