Cavaliers vs Pacers: The 4th-Quarter Takeover That Changed Everything 🏀🔥

Image Source :: AP

In a game that didn’t feel like a blowout on paper, the Cleveland Cavaliers pulled off a gutsy road effort to top the Indiana Pacers 120–116 on January 6, 2026. The Pacers had held a lead throughout much of the night, but Cleveland’s late push flipped the script and handed Indiana a new low point: a franchise-record 13th straight loss. Reuters+1

This wasn’t just another score in the standings. It was a defining moment for both teams—symbolizing where each sits in the Eastern Conference and how their seasons are shaping up.

Setting the Stage: Cavs and Pacers Heading Into the Game

Coming in, the narrative was simple:

Cavaliers were trying to stay afloat in the playoff picture—solid but not dominant.
Pacers were struggling mightily, plagued by injuries and a slide that’s now historic. The Times of India

Cleveland, at 20–17 before the game, had dealt with assorted absences all season—stars sitting out for rest, lingering injuries, lineup shuffle after lineup shuffle. Indiana’s woes were deeper: core pieces like Tyrese Haliburton, Bennedict Mathurin, Isaiah Jackson, and Obi Toppin were unavailable, forcing role players and youngsters into heavy minutes. The Times of India

Where to watch Cleveland Cavaliers vs Pacers? The matchup aired on FanDuel Sports Network regionally, and fans could stream via services carrying those feeds. Radio coverage also hit key local frequencies. The Times of India

How the Game Unfolded: Big Runs, Big Performances

First Three Quarters

Indiana came out with energy, taking advantage of Cleveland’s occasional sluggishness on both ends in the first three quarters. The Pacers led late into the fourth, playing with confidence despite their skid, while the Cavaliers looked a bit disjointed at times. ESPN

Fourth Quarter: The Turning Point

Here’s where the game really turned:

Trailing by nine points entering the final period, the Cavs reeled off an 11-0 run that flipped momentum. Reuters
Darius Garland was the catalyst, going 7-for-7 from the floor for 14 points in the fourth alone, including clutch late buckets that sealed the deal. Fear The Sword
Jarrett Allen provided a critical boost with key free throws down the stretch. Fear The Sword

By the final whistle, Cleveland had outpaced Indiana 36–23 in the fourth and walked out with a four-point win. ESPN

Player Highlights: Who Stepped Up

⭐ Darius Garland – Lead Dog

Garland was the story of the night:

29 points
6 assists
Perfect in the fourth quarter

He made his presence felt when it mattered most, playing like a veteran on a tightrope—cool, poised, and efficient. Reuters+1

Other Cavs Contributors

Evan Mobley: Active and versatile with 20 points and rebounds. Reuters
Jarrett Allen: A solid double-double, anchoring the paint and finishing with meaningful free throws. Reuters
Sam Merrill: Came alive, especially from deep, and gave the Cavs spacing when they needed it. Fear The Sword
Craig Porter Jr.: Nearly a triple-double and hustled on both ends. Fear The Sword

Pacers Standouts

Pascal Siakam led Indiana with 22 points, showing flashes of the All-Star caliber that once defined this roster. Reuters
Jay Huff had an efficient night with 20 points, giving Indiana some life offensively. Reuters

Despite their efforts, the Pacers couldn’t sustain enough offense down the stretch. Their supporting cast showed grit, but Cleveland’s late game execution was the difference. Reuters

Key Stats You Should Know

Stat	Cavaliers	Pacers
Final Score	120	116
Fourth Quarter Scoring	36	23
Garland Points	29	–
Siakam Points	–	22
Pacers Losing Streak	–	13

This outcome extended the Pacers’ losing streak to a franchise-record 13 games. They now stand at 6–31, the league’s worst record, and are in desperate need of a spark. Reuters

What This Means for Each Team

For the Cavaliers

This win was more than just two points. It showed resilience and depth—pieces that matter as the playoff race tightens. Cleveland has had a stop-start kind of season, but this kind of clutch performance can build momentum. They now sit at 21–17, firmly in the mix but still chasing consistency. Reuters

For the Pacers

The outlook is bleak but instructive. Indiana’s injury turmoil and youth became painfully obvious. Even on home court, the Pacers couldn’t close out against a squad missing its own key players. There’s talent here, but it’s buried under lineup turnover and lineup holes. The Times of India

Their next few games will be telling—can they arrest the skid or will this spiral snowball? Rick Carlisle’s attempt to notch his 1,000th career win will have to wait. SI

Looking Ahead

Both teams continue their respective journeys immediately after this matchup:

Cavaliers travel to face Minnesota, aiming to string together wins and solidify playoff positioning. The Washington Post
Pacers hit the road in search of that elusive win that could lift spirits and reset momentum. The Washington Post

The rivalry isn’t historic in the way rivals like Lakers–Celtics are, but Cavs vs Pacers always brings competitive energy—especially given their shared Eastern Conference history and regular seasons filled with fluctuating fortunes.

FAQs – Cavaliers vs Pacers

Q: Who won the Cavaliers vs Pacers game on January 6, 2026?
A: The Cleveland Cavaliers won 120–116, coming back in the fourth quarter to take the lead and secure the win. Reuters

Q: What was the Cavaliers vs Pacers final score?
A: It finished 120–116 in favor of the Cavaliers. Reuters

Q: Where to watch Cleveland Cavaliers vs Pacers games?
A: Regionally in Ohio and Indiana on FanDuel Sports Network and via streaming services carrying that feed. The Times of India

Q: What is the Pacers’ current losing streak?
A: After this game, the Pacers hit a franchise-record 13 consecutive losses. Reuters

Q: Which Cavaliers players stood out in the game?
A: Darius Garland led the Cavs with a strong performance, supported by Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. Reuters

Q: How did injuries impact the Cavaliers vs Pacers game?
A: Both teams played without key contributors due to rest and injuries, affecting rotations and scoring opportunities. The Times of India

Q: Do the Cavaliers lead the all-time series vs Pacers?
A: The Pacers have the all-time edge, though Cleveland has won both meetings this season prior to this game. SportsLine

Conclusion

The Cavaliers vs Pacers matchup on January 6 wasn’t just another scoreline. It showed Cleveland’s resilience and Indiana’s urgent need for health, cohesion, and confidence. Garland’s late-game brilliance and the Cavs’ depth carried them to victory, while the Pacers continue to chase answers in what has become a tough season.

This game highlighted what fans of both teams already sensed: Cleveland has pieces that matter in crunch time, and Indiana’s rebuild—or resurgence—depends on healthier rotations and breakouts from its supporting cast.

Bottom line: it was a thrilling, competitive night of NBA action and a meaningful chapter in both teams’ seasons.