Indianapolis, January 7, 2026
The Cleveland Cavaliers triumphed over the Indiana Pacers with a score of 120-116, marking the Pacers’ 13th consecutive loss. Darius Garland’s exceptional performance, especially in the fourth quarter, contributed significantly to the Cavaliers’ victory. Despite strong efforts from Pascal Siakam and Jay Huff, the injury-plagued Pacers struggled to keep up, suffering their worst record this season. Both teams are set to face off against other opponents soon as they look to improve their standings.
Indianapolis, Indiana – Cavaliers Edge Pacers 120-116, Handing Indiana 13th Consecutive Loss
On January 6, 2026, the Cleveland Cavaliers secured a 120-116 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Indianapolis, marking the Pacers’ 13th consecutive loss, a franchise record. This defeat leaves the Pacers with a league-worst record of 6-31.
Game Highlights
Darius Garland led the Cavaliers with 29 points, including 14 in the decisive fourth quarter, fueling a 13-point run that propelled Cleveland to victory. Evan Mobley contributed 20 points, while Jarrett Allen and Sam Merrill each added 19 points. Merrill was particularly effective from beyond the arc, making 6 of 10 three-point attempts.
The Pacers were paced by Pascal Siakam, who scored 22 points, and Jay Huff, who matched his season high with 20 points, shooting 7 of 10 from the field and 4 of 7 from three-point range. Despite these efforts, Indiana’s injury-depleted roster struggled to maintain a lead, especially in the final quarter.
Injury Report
The Pacers were without several key players due to injuries: center Isaiah Jackson, swingman Bennedict Mathurin, forward Obi Toppin, and All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton. The absence of these players has significantly impacted the team’s performance during this losing streak.
Looking Ahead
The Cavaliers, now 21-17, will visit the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday. The Pacers, also at 21-17, will travel to Charlotte on the same day, aiming to break their losing streak.
Background
Entering this game, the Pacers had already matched their franchise record for consecutive losses, previously set in the 1982-83, 1984-85, and 1988-89 seasons. The team’s current struggles have been exacerbated by the absence of key players due to injuries, making it challenging to secure victories.
Box Score
| Player | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Field Goals Made | Field Goals Attempted | Three-Point Field Goals Made | Three-Point Field Goals Attempted | Free Throws Made | Free Throws Attempted |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Darius Garland | 29 | 2 | 6 | 14 | 23 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| Evan Mobley | 20 | 6 | 5 | 8 | 16 | 0 | 3 | 4 | 4 |
| Jarrett Allen | 19 | 4 | 2 | 6 | 12 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Sam Merrill | 19 | 4 | 2 | 6 | 10 | 6 | 10 | 1 | 2 |
| Pascal Siakam | 22 | 9 | 2 | 5 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Jay Huff | 20 | 2 | 1 | 7 | 10 | 4 | 7 | 2 | 2 |
What was the final score of the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Indiana Pacers on January 6, 2026?
The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Indiana Pacers 120-116 on January 6, 2026, in Indianapolis.
Who led the Cavaliers in scoring during the game?
Darius Garland led the Cavaliers with 29 points, including 14 in the fourth quarter.
How many consecutive losses have the Indiana Pacers suffered?
The Pacers have now lost 13 consecutive games, setting a franchise record.
Which key players were unavailable for the Pacers during this game?
The Pacers were without center Isaiah Jackson, swingman Bennedict Mathurin, forward Obi Toppin, and All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton due to injuries.
What are the upcoming games for the Cavaliers and the Pacers?
The Cavaliers will visit the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday, while the Pacers will travel to Charlotte on the same day, both aiming to break their respective losing streaks.
Now Happening on X
- @FOX59 (January 7, 2026, 1:00 AM) Public housing residents’ safety in Indianapolis relies heavily on IMPD after the Indianapolis Housing Agency dissolved its internal police force and off-duty officer hiring capabilities. View on X
- @CBS4Indy (January 7, 2026, 1:00 AM) Safety concerns for Indianapolis public housing residents persist due to reliance on IMPD, following the dissolution of the housing agency’s internal police and off-duty officer options. View on X
- @FOX59 (January 6, 2026, 1:00 AM) Community leaders in Indianapolis express alarm over two of the year’s three homicides involving juvenile victims, highlighting ongoing public safety issues. View on X
- @CBS4Indy (January 3, 2026, 7:52 AM) IMPD reports an arrest in connection with a shooting on Teakwood Drive in Indianapolis, updating the ongoing investigation. View on X
- @FOX59 (January 3, 2026, 7:51 AM) IMPD announces an arrest related to a shooting incident on Teakwood Drive in Indianapolis. View on X
- @CBS4Indy (January 1, 2026, 9:49 AM) One person remains in critical condition after a shooting on Indianapolis’ near east side early Thursday morning. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Teen Arrested in Indianapolis Fatal Shooting
Indiana Pacers to Host Cleveland Cavaliers in Key Matchup
Pacers Fans Vote for Play of the Game After Tough Loss
Indiana State Police Urgently Search for Missing 13-Year-Old Girl
Fishers, Indiana: Fatal Shooting at Britton Tavern; Suspect Arrested
Donovan Mitchell’s 43 Points Propel Cavaliers Past Pacers
Eastern Conference Predictions for Upcoming NBA Season
Cleveland Cavaliers Dominate Eastern Conference Standings
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
