In a thrilling night of basketball, the Indiana Pacers and Denver Nuggets showcased remarkable performances, each securing a vital playoff victory. The Pacers stunned the Milwaukee Bucks with a stunning comeback, erasing a seven-point deficit in the last 35 seconds of overtime to win 119-118, while the Nuggets overwhelmed the Los Angeles Clippers 131-115, led by a spectacular 43-point effort from strong guard Jamal Murray. Both teams have now advanced closer to their playoff goals, igniting excitement among fans and analysts alike.
🏀 Good morning to all, but especially to …
THE INDIANA PACERS …
The Pacers just pulled off one of the greatest comebacks we’ll ever see. That they did it to close out their series against the rival Bucks makes it all the more special. After trailing by seven with 35 seconds left in overtime, Indiana finished on a stunning 8-0 run to beat Milwaukee, 119-118, and advance in five games.
- This one looked all but over after a pair of Gary Trent Jr. 3-pointers (he finished with a game-high 33 points) and a fastbreak layup from Giannis Antetokounmpo (30 points, 20 rebounds, 13 assists).
- But then came a rally/meltdown — for the ages. After an A.J. Green free throw, Andrew Nembhard hit a deep 3, Trent turned it over on the ensuing inbounds, and Tyrese Haliburton scored an and-1 layup on Green. 118-117, Milwaukee.
- Then Trent fumbled a pass out of bounds, and Haliburton went right at Antetokounmpo to score the game-winning layup with 1.3 seconds left.
Haliburton finished with 26 points, five rebounds, nine assists, three steals and three blocks.
Things got ugly with several heated postgame confrontations, including one between Antetokounmpo and Haliburton’s dad, but the Pacers will certainly cherish vanquishing Milwaukee, and in dramatic fashion at that.
… AND THE DENVER NUGGETS
Perhaps the reports of the Nuggets‘ demise were greatly exaggerated, and perhaps all they needed was a healthy, playoff version of Jamal Murray. Perhaps. Denver is one game away from advancing to the second round after a 131-115 Game 5 win over the Clippers.
Murray scored 43 points, a Nuggets home playoff record and his sixth career 40-point playoff game, passing Nikola Jokić for most in franchise history. Jokić was relatively quiet but still had a triple-double.
Rather, it was Murray, Aaron Gordon (23 points) and Russell Westbrook (21 points) leading the way this time, an encouraging sign for a team that has struggled massively whenever Jokić sat. Sam has a great analysis on the dynamic of using James Harden to defend — yes, defend — Jokić.
- Quinn: “If this confuses you, well, that’s understandable. Aside from standing half a foot shorter than Jokić, Harden’s defensive reputation has typically been as a laughing stock. The truth is more complicated. While he has his share of low-effort lowlights from random nights in the regular season, he tends to hold up better in high-leverage situations. More importantly, he has a few consistent virtues: His basketball IQ, his lightning-quick hands, and, most importantly for our purposes, his strength. He can stand his ground in the post against most big men, and his defenses have historically taken advantage of that.”
Elsewhere …
- The Celtics eliminated the Magic with a 120-89 Game 5 win. Jayson Tatum scored 35 points to go along with eight rebounds and 10 assists, and Jaylen Brown added 23 points. Boston outscored Orlando 73-40 in the second half.
- The Magic, who only cracked triple digits once in five games this series, desperately need a scoring guard, Sam writes.
- The Pistons kept their season alive with a 106-103 Game 5 win at the Knicks. Cade Cunningham scored 24 points, and Ausar Thompson added 22 while playing terrific defense on Jalen Brunson (16 points on 4-for-16 shooting).
👍 Honorable mentions
🏀 And not such a good morning for …
THE MILWAUKEE BUCKS
The Bucks have been in this section the past few days, so we’ll keep this short. Antetokounmpo became the first player with a 30/20/10 game with multiple steals and blocks in a playoff game, and Trent was mostly magnificent … and Milwaukee still lost.
I just couldn’t stop thinking about Milwaukee’s finishing lineup.
- No Damian Lillard, one of the game’s all-time great closers. He tore his Achilles in Game 4.
- No Khris Middleton, a Bucks icon and bonafide closer. He was dumped to the Wizards in a midseason trade — along with other pieces — for Kyle Kuzma.
- Kuzma, in turn, was nowhere to be found down the stretch. He played just 13 minutes, going quietly after an awful series.
- No Brook Lopez, whose decline was especially pronounced. He played just eight minutes.
Blame the injuries. Blame the roster construction. Blame whatever you want. We’ve discussed why it’s time for an Antetokounmpo trade already. Antetokounmpo had sharp words for Haliburton’s father, who let the celebration go a bit too far. But later he was mum on his future. A long, uncertain offseason awaits.
👎 Not so honorable mentions
🏈 NFL Draft grades and offseason grades
Our 2025 NFL Draft grades continue to arrive, with Ryan Wilson (here) and former NFL defensive lineman Leger Douzable (here) the latest to do the honors. Ryan gave out five “A+” marks, and Leger gave out three. Two teams got an “A+” in both: the Raiders and the Falcons.
- Wilson: “The Raiders traded down 10 spots, grabbed Jack Bech at No. 58 and used the additional third-rounder to get the most athletic offensive tackle in this class, William & Mary’s Charles Grant. Bech is going to eat in the slot, in part because he’s a big wideout, great route runner, and has a huge catch radius, but also because defenses have to concern themselves with Brock Bowers and first-rounder Ashton Jeanty.”
- Douzable:“The Falcons needed some pass-rush help in the worst way, and boy did they get it with OLB Jalon Walker, who I feel will be the best player in this draft when it’s all said and done. … Then the Falcons doubled down by taking EDGE James Pearce Jr., who can really get after the quarterback.”
This is one thing I love about the draft. People who know a ton about football can feel similarly … or completely differently. Many analysts panned Atlanta for trading a future first-round pick to get Pearce (I certainly didn’t love it), but here it earned high marks.
The draft, of course, is just one part of the offseason, and our offseason grades series is up and running with the NFC East, NFC West and AFC East. We usually focus on the positive, but one negative mark for a longtime power from Jordan Dajani caught my eye.
- Dajani: “49ers: D+ —The 49ers had the worst free agency of any NFL team, but general manager John Lynch said they had a plan, and that “big things are coming our way.” Is that the Brock Purdy extension, or was it their plans in the draft? It didn’t feel like San Francisco necessarily hit the draft out of the park despite making 11 selections.”
Again, it’s another example of how hard it can be to judge draft hauls; Ryan gave San Francisco’s class an “A+”.
⚽ PSG beats Arsenal 1-0 in first leg; Barcelona-Inter preview, picks
PSG has one foot into the UEFA Champions League final after a 1-0 first-leg win against Arsenal, a massive away result for Les Parisiens.
Ousmane Dembele scored on a wonderful strike just over three minutes in, and the combination of continued excellence from Gianluigi Donnarumma and PSG winning duels helped that goal stand up the rest of the night.
Though Dembele found the net, it was the teammate who assisted him who shared top marks with Donnarumma in Pardeep Cattry’s player ratings.
- Cattry: “Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was, once again, the star of PSG’s show … He makes Luis Enrique‘s system really work, giving opposition defenders plenty of trouble. His busy attacking night ensured PSG would return home with the advantage for next week’s second leg.” 8.5“
There’s still a long way to go, though, and Enrique knows Arsenal is capable of a comeback.
Today, Inter visits Barcelona in their first-leg meeting. It’s a rematch of their wild 2010 semifinal, which Inter won 3-2. How will today’s match play out? In our expert predictions, Pardeep says …
- Cattry: “Barcelona 2, Inter 1 —Barcelona may be without Robert Lewandowski but they are still the favorites in this one and it’s not hard to see why. Saturday’s Copa del Rey triumph proved they can still find goals without the Poland international and also demonstrated Barcelona’s ability to not crumble under the pressure of expectation. That’s a far cry from Inter, whose treble hopes have been dashed and are now winless in their last four.”
📺 What we’re watching Wednesday
⚾ Tigers at Astros, 2:10 p.m. on MLB Network
⚾ Marlins at Dodgers, 3:10 p.m. on MLB Network
🏒 Canadiens at Capitals (Capitals lead 3-1), 7 p.m. on ESPN
⚾ Royals at Rays or Diamondbacks at Mets, 7:05 p.m. on MLB Network
🏀 Warriors at Rockets (Warriors lead 3-1), 7:30 p.m. on TNT/truTV
🏒 Panthers at Lightning (Panthers lead 3-1), 7:30 p.m. on ESPN2
🏒 Blues at Jets (Series tied 2-2), 9:30 p.m. on ESPN
🏀 Timberwolves at Lakers (Timberwolves lead 3-1), 10 p.m. on TNT/truTV
| Article Subheadings |
|---|
| 1) Indiana Pacers’ Dramatic Comeback |
| 2) Jamal Murray’s Record-Setting Night |
| 3) Bucks’ Disappointing End to the Series |
| 4) NFL Draft Grades Analysis |
| 5) PSG’s Champions League Victory |
Indiana Pacers’ Dramatic Comeback
The Indiana Pacers achieved a remarkable victory over the Milwaukee Bucks in a Game 5 showdown that will be remembered for its breathtaking finish. After trailing by seven points with only 35 seconds left in overtime, the Pacers orchestrated an incredible comeback, ultimately sealing their fate with an 8-0 run to secure a 119-118 victory. This momentous win not only advanced them to the next round of the playoffs but also allowed them to eliminate their arch-rivals, the Bucks, in a thrilling fashion.
The game was filled with tension, as both teams battled fiercely on the court. The Bucks seemed poised for victory, with key players like Gary Trent Jr. and Giannis Antetokounmpo delivering impressive performances. Trent, who ended with a game-high 33 points, consistently found ways to score against the Pacers. Antetokounmpo also put in a noteworthy performance with 30 points, 20 rebounds, and 13 assists, showcasing his dominance on both endsof the floor.
However, the Pacers rallied in the closing moments of the game in a manner that could only be described as historical. The comeback was initiated by team momentum built upon a successful free throw from A.J. Green, followed by a deep 3-pointer from Andrew Nembhard. The momentum shifted dramatically when Trent committed a crucial turnover on an inbounds pass, allowing the Pacers to capitalize. Tyrese Haliburton then showcased his clutch performance by scoring an and-1 layup on Green, reducing the Bucks’ lead to just one point at 118-117.
As if the tension were not high enough, Trent’s next play led to yet another turnover, setting the stage for Haliburton to make the game-winning layup with only 1.3 seconds remaining. Haliburton finished the game with an impressive stat line of 26 points, five rebounds, nine assists, three steals, and three blocks, demonstrating his multifaceted contribution to the team. This remarkable victory encapsulated the essence of teamwork, resilience, and unyielding spirit, allowing the Pacers to advance in the playoff series.
Jamal Murray’s Record-Setting Night
In a parallel matchup, the Denver Nuggets dazzled fans with a 131-115 win over the Los Angeles Clippers, pushing them closer to a second-round berth. The standout performer of the night was none other than Jamal Murray, who scored a franchise-record 43 points in a playoff game. He achieved this milestone while also contributing to the overall team effort alongside his counterpart, Nikola Jokić, who recorded a triple-double.
The significance of this game cannot be overstated. The Nuggets had faced significant challenges in the postseason leading up to this game, and Murray’s return to form played a crucial role in shifting the team’s dynamics. His scoring spree not only underscored his capability as a prolific scorer but also highlighted his essential role as a leader on the court. Murray had not only passed Jokić for most career 40-point games in franchise history but also set a new standard for Nuggets playoff performances in general.
Murray’s phenomenal play came at a critical time, as the Nuggets needed a strong showing from their star guard after inconsistent performances in previous games. He carried the offensive load alongside members like Aaron Gordon, who added 23 points to the score. Meanwhile, Russell Westbrook also made his presence felt with 21 points, contributing significantly to the Nuggets’ triumph over the Clippers.
Denver’s impressive win was a symbol of hope for a fan base that had been concerned about the team’s playoff viability without a full-strength lineup. Murray’s ability to provide a scoring spark in elite moments served as a reminder of his potential to shine in high-pressure situations, effectively putting to rest any lingering doubts about his capability to perform during critical playoff matchups.
Bucks’ Disappointing End to the Series
While the Pacers and Nuggets celebrated their respective victories, the Milwaukee Bucks faced a somber reality as they were eliminated from the playoffs. The Bucks’ exit was marked by a disappointing series where they seemed poised for success but ultimately faltered when it mattered most. Led by star players Giannis Antetokounmpo and Gary Trent Jr., they appeared to have the upper hand for most of the series but struggled in critical moments against the Pacers.
Throughout the series, the Bucks were plagued by injuries and roster inconsistencies. Notably, the absence of Damian Lillard, who suffered an Achilles injury during Game 4, became a glaring deficiency. Lillard’s proven ability to close games was missed profoundly, and his lack of contribution was felt throughout the final contest against the Pacers. Moreover, Khris Middleton‘s midseason departure to the Wizards for Kyle Kuzma left a significant gap in the Bucks’ lineup, as Middleton’s clutch performances were invaluable in previous playoff runs.
The roster’s limitations became evident during critical phases of the deciding game. Kuzma, a key acquisition, struggled to make an impact and failed to deliver when the team needed him most, logging just 13 minutes of play before retreating silently as the game slipped away. Additionally, Brook Lopez showcased diminished returns, contributing merely eight minutes. These missing pieces left the Bucks unable to fend off Indiana’s late-game surge.
In the aftermath of their playoff exit, the Bucks face a long offseason full of uncertainty. They must grapple with questions related to roster construction and player contracts, especially concerning Antetokounmpo, who might be weighing his future amid rumors of potential trades. As the Bucks transition into the offseason, a long, arduous journey lies ahead as they analyze what went wrong and strategize for the next competitive cycle.
NFL Draft Grades Analysis
While the NBA playoffs captured fan attention, analysts elsewhere scrutinized the recent NFL draft and assigned grades for team performances during the offseason. Observers like Ryan Wilson and former NFL defensive lineman Leger Douzable weighed in with their assessments, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses exhibited by various franchises.
The draft holds significant importance as teams aim to build their future rosters while also seeking immediate improvements. Wilson’s grading scale revealed favorable assessments for the Raiders and Falcons, both of whom received “A+” scores, reflecting their savvy selections and strategic planning.
In his analysis, Wilson noted key draft picks such as Jack Bech and Charles Grant for the Raiders, suggesting they addressed crucial gaps in their lineup. Similarly, Douzable praised the Falcons for snagging Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. as they filled pressing needs on the defensive side of the ball. Their successful draft strategies could set the stage for quicker development and a potential return to prominence in the league.
However, grading the draft is inherently subjective and can yield varied opinions based on individual analyst’s perspectives. As players develop and new rosters materialize, those assessments may change, creating dynamic narratives leading into next season.
PSG’s Champions League Victory
In a different arena, the soccer world buzzed about Paris Saint-Germain‘s victory over Arsenal in their UEFA Champions League first-leg match. Following a hard-fought 1-0 win, PSG positioned themselves strongly as they seek a spot in the finals.
The match highlighted a swift attacking move initiated by Ousmane Dembele, whose early goal provided PSG with the lead they would not relinquish. With exceptional defensive performances anchored by Gianluigi Donnarumma, PSG showcased resilience, managing to hold off Arsenal’s onslaught of attacks throughout the match.
Dembele’s strike not only exemplified his striking capabilities but also played a critical role in securing an advantageous position heading into the second leg. Notably, teammate Khvicha Kvaratskhelia emerged as another influential figure, offering vital support during the game as he continually troubled Arsenal’s defensive schemes.
Despite the positive outcome, PSG and coach Luis Enrique remain aware of Arsenal’s competitive spirit and know they cannot afford to become complacent leading into the crucial second leg. The teams will clash again, raising the stakes and intensity further, as both clubs strive for a coveted spot in the Champions League final.
| No. | Key Points |
|---|---|
| 1 | The Indiana Pacers achieved a remarkable comeback against the Milwaukee Bucks, winning 119-118 in Game 5. |
| 2 | Jamal Murray scored a franchise-record 43 points, leading the Denver Nuggets to a win over the Clippers. |
| 3 | The Bucks faced disappointment as they were eliminated from the playoffs. |
| 4 | The NFL Draft grades reflect successful strategies from teams like the Raiders and Falcons. |
| 5 | Paris Saint-Germain secured a pivotal 1-0 victory against Arsenal in the Champions League. |
Summary
The prevailing headlines from the sports world reveal a week of electrifying moments, with teams like the Indiana Pacers and Denver Nuggets exemplifying grit and determination in their playoff pursuits. Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Bucks face a critical offseason filled with uncertainty and reflection after a disappointing series exit. The NFL Draft also showcased strategic prowess among teams aiming for rebound seasons, while PSG’s Champions League triumph signifies significant potential on the European stage. Overall, these narratives reflect the evolving dynamics within competitive sports, with fans eagerly anticipating what lies ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What was the key moment in the Pacers vs. Bucks game?
The key moment in the game was the Pacers’ stunning comeback, where they scored eight unanswered points in the final seconds of overtime to secure their victory, sealing the series win.
Question: How did Jamal Murray’s performance impact the Nuggets’ playoff chances?
Jamal Murray’s performance, where he scored 43 points, was instrumental in the Nuggets’ victory over the Clippers, showcasing his ability to lead the team during critical game moments and boosting their playoff aspirations.
Question: What challenges did the Bucks face during their playoff run?
The Bucks faced significant challenges, including key injuries to players like Damian Lillard and Khris Middleton, along with roster changes that undermined their overall effectiveness in crucial playoff moments.
