"The unprecedented success of road teams in the NBA's conference semifinals, winning every Game 1 and both Game 2s in the East, highlights shocking playoff dynamics."
"Cleveland's struggles, characterized by their poor shooting compared to Indiana's 3-point success, raise concerns for their chances against the Pacers."
"The Cavaliers, despite key player absences, managed to lead by 17 in Game 2, showcasing their potential, yet faltered in crunch time."
"Historical patterns were shattered as favorites lost while discussing implications for Cleveland and Boston's hopes to reach the East finals."
The opening days of the NBA's conference semifinals featured an unprecedented phenomenon where road teams won all four Game 1s, followed by road wins in both Eastern Conference Game 2s. The Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics, having dominated the regular season, faced surprising challenges against the lower-seeded Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks. Cleveland's poor three-point shooting performance and missed opportunities in crucial moments exemplify the difficulties the favorites are encountering, raising doubts about their ability to advance to the East finals that seemed assured prior to the playoffs.
Read at ESPN.com
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