Tensions Rise as Pacers and Cavs Clash: De’Andre Hunter Shoves Bennedict Mathurin
Cavs and Pacers Face Off in Heated Game 4During the intense matchup, De’Andre Hunter shoves Pacers’ Bennedict Mathurin. This added to the drama and excitement of the game. This moment highlighted the competitive nature of both teams.
In a dramatic Game 4 playoff matchup, the Cleveland Cavaliers faced off against the Indiana Pacers, where tensions flared between players. The incident centered around Cavs forward De’Andre Hunter. He ended up shoving Pacers’ Bennedict Mathurin, leading to a significant moment in the game.
The Altercation Unfolds
With 4:32 left in the first quarter, the Pacers, who had jumped to a 12-point lead, prepared to inbound the ball. In a surprising turn of events, De’Andre Hunter shoved Bennedict Mathurin to the ground. This altercation quickly escalated as Pacers star Myles Turner stepped in to defend Mathurin. The incident, where Hunter shoves Pacers’ Bennedict Mathurin, marked a pivotal moment.
Replays indicated that Mathurin had struck Hunter in the midsection just before the push, suggesting that the incident was not entirely one-sided. Following the confrontation, officials reviewed the play. They assessed a Flagrant II foul to Mathurin, resulting in his ejection from the game. Both Hunter and Turner received technical fouls for their involvement in the scuffle.
Previous Encounters Between Mathurin and Hunter
This wasn’t the first time the two players had clashed during the series. In Game 1, Mathurin challenged Hunter at the rim during a dunk attempt, leading to a heated exchange. Their competitive styles had already resulted in double technical fouls in Game 3, indicating that the rivalry was intensifying. Incidents like when De’Andre Hunter shoves Pacers’ Bennedict Mathurin have become highlights of their ongoing rivalry.
Bennedict Mathurin appears to hit De’Andre Hunter, Hunter retaliates, Myles Turner then goes after Hunter.
— Underdog (@Underdog) May 12, 2025
Getting chippy in Indy 😬pic.twitter.com/lNMb5x5ax0
Pacers Take Control Early in the Game
Entering the game with a 2-1 series lead, the Indiana Pacers started strong. They ended the first quarter with a commanding 38-23 advantage. The Pacers showcased impressive shooting, hitting 53.8% from the field and 60% from three-point range. In contrast, the Cleveland Cavaliers struggled, shooting only 26.7% from the field and 37.5% from beyond the arc.
Looking Ahead: Pacers vs. Cavs Series Dynamics
As the series progresses, the dynamics between the Pacers and Cavs will be crucial. With Mathurin’s ejection and tensions running high, both teams will need to navigate the competitive atmosphere carefully. The outcome of the Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Pacers matchup, featuring episodes like Hunter’s shove on Mathurin, could significantly impact the series. Both teams vie for a spot in the next round.
