The Indiana Pacers executed an impressive comeback against the Cleveland Cavaliers, largely influenced by controversial officiating decisions. In the closing moments of Game 2, the NBA admitted to two missed lane violations that should have nullified crucial plays. Pascal Siakam's free throw rebound by Aaron Nesmith should have led to a jump ball instead of a dunk that cut the lead to five points. This play also involved Donovan Mitchell, who suffered an injury but returned to finish with 48 points.

Following this sequence, Tyrese Haliburton's game-winning three-pointer was also aided by a missed lane violation, as several Cavaliers players jumped early during his free throw attempt. Despite the NBA's acknowledgment of these critical errors, none of the Cavaliers expressed discontent after the game, which speaks to the often subjective nature of officiating in high-stakes situations.