Pacers Aim to Extend Series Despite Uphill Battle Against Celtics

Indiana Pacers coach Rick Carlisle is rallying his team as they face a daunting 3-0 deficit against the Boston Celtics in their best-of-seven series. Despite the historical odds stacked against them — no NBA team has ever come back from such a deficit to win a series — Carlisle remains resolute in his belief that his team is ready to fight.

The Pacers have faced missed opportunities in Games 1 and 3, with Game 2 further complicated by an injury to All-NBA guard Tyrese Haliburton. Haliburton's status for Game 4 remains uncertain, adding another challenge to the Pacers' already tough situation.

On the other side, the Celtics are on the brink of advancing to the NBA Finals for the second time in recent years, with All-NBA forward Jayson Tatum leading the charge with impressive performances in the series.

Despite facing elimination, the Pacers are determined not to give up. Guard T.J. McConnell emphasized the team's resilience, stating that no player in the locker room has conceded defeat.

The Celtics, meanwhile, are mindful of not underestimating their opponents, drawing from their own experience of facing a 3-0 deficit in last year's playoffs before forcing a Game 7.

Injuries also play a role for both teams, with the Celtics potentially benefitting from a big lead to rest key players like Kristaps Porzingis and Luke Kornet.

As the Pacers prepare for Game 4, forward Pascal Siakam echoes the team's sentiment, emphasizing their desire to extend the series and fight until the end.

The Pacers will look to their home crowd for support as they aim to stave off elimination and force a Game 5 in Boston.