The Indiana Pacers have been in this situation a number of times this season. Their backs are up against the wall as they face the Chicago Bulls in the United Center tonight. Most believed this series would end Saturday, but Danny Granger and Roy Hibbert wanted to take another trip to Chicago. They have proven they can fight away from the wall and create some space for themselves, so can they do it one more time?
The United Center is an extremely loud place to play (as the Pacers had a difficult time communicating at the end of game 1), so this task appears even more daunting. Maybe they Pacers are too young to know better and come out strong once again? Maybe they are too young to fully focus on such a huge task and come out slow to start the game? I believe they come out strong and prove, once again, this is a different team than before. It would surprise me if this game did not come down to the wire once again. So, who helps close out this game? Defense and free throws locked up game 4 (and possibly a hobbled Derrick Rose?).... After the showing the Bulls fans had at Conseco on Saturday, all I can say is give us one more shot to fill the Fieldhouse, Pacers!
After the jump, check out the links of the day, including Derrick Rose committing to playing tonight...should be a fun one tonight, as Tom mentioned Kilroy's is having a viewing part tonight so come join the fun if you are available!
- PACERS: Countdown to Tipoff: Pacers vs Chicago, Game 5
- Despite shaky 4th quarters, Pacers learn they can hang with Bulls | The Indianapolis Star | indystar.com
- Foster knows he's a 'villain' in Game 5 | The Indianapolis Star | indystar.com
- Kravitz: When season ends, it won't be good riddance | The Indianapolis Star | indystar.com
- Chicago Bulls: Derrick Rose vows to play in Game 5 Tuesday - chicagotribune.com Derrick Rose's sprained left ankle won't prevent him from playing Tuesday in Game 5 against the Pacers.
- Chicago Bulls: Nothing surprises coach Tom Thibodeau in playoffs - chicagotribune.com Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau isn't surprised by the level of panic and negative questions directed his way during the playoffs, even with his team up 3-1.
- Paxson comes to Boozer's defense - Chicago Tribune
- The Republic - Improved Pacers still haven't arrived - Columbus, Indiana
- Indiana vs. Chicago - Preview - 26, 2011 - Basketball - NBA - SI.com
- Noah thrilled his grandfather will be at UC - Chicago Bulls Blog - ESPN Chicago
- What does the NFL lockout ruling mean for the NBA? | ProBasketballTalk
- Pacers keep the faith-and composure-as their NBA Playoffs series goes to Chicago. - fox59.com
- 2011 NBA Playoffs: Frank Vogel Should Secure Pacers Job With Playoff Performance - SB Nation Indiana
- 2011 NBA Playoffs: The Chicago Bulls listed Derrick Rose as questionable for Game 5 - ESPN Chicago