ORLANDO — In a game where four of their regulars did not suit up, the Pacers still came away winners against Miami in Orlando Friday 109-92.
Either because of injuries, or just to get some rest before the playoffs, Indiana made do without Myles Turner, Victor Oladipo, Domantas Sabonis and T.J. Warren.
The win gives the Pacers a 6-2 record since the NBA restart and they will face Miami in a first-round best-of-seven playoff series starting next Tuesday in Orlando.
The Pacers controlled Friday's game from the start, leading by ten after the first quarter, and by 14 both at the half and heading into the final period.
Six Indiana players scored in double figures, led by Doug McDermott with 23. The Pacers shot a healthy 48% while holding Miami to 34% shooting.
Indiana out rebounded the Heat 51-48, thanks in part to 17 rebounds from Alize Johnson.
The Heat and Pacers had the same record heading into the game, 44-28, so the Indiana win moves the Pacers into the fourth spot in the NBA east.
