How Well Do the Indiana Pacers Matchup With the Cleveland Cavaliers?

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Oct 15, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard J.R. Smith (5) shoots over Indiana Pacers guard Monta Ellis (11) in the first quarter at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /

J.R. Smith vs Monta Ellis

J.R. Smith is having his worst year in a decade, and the 2nd worst of his career. At only 34.6% from the field, Smith is struggling in multiple facets after returning from injury. However, in his only game against the Pacers this year, J.R. looked quite like himself, scoring 18 on 6-11 from 3 (including one directly over Monta Ellis’ outstretched fingertips).

If the Pacers come up against the guy Smith has been all year, this is a wash. Smith can shoot right over the top of Ellis though, is stronger, and is a much better defender (who thought we’d ever say that about J.R. Smith?).

Ellis has been moderately better of late, but definitely looks to be on the downslope of his career. The arrow probably points Cleveland’s way, but it may be close. The Pacers could win this matchup if GRIII/C.J. Miles/Lance Stephenson wind up starting. Nate’s given no indication that that is the case though.

(This breakdown is assuming Nate McMillan sticks with Monta Ellis starting at the 2.)

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