Coming up against LeBron James in the first round of the playoffs usually spells danger but the Indiana Pacers had no fear going into Cleveland to face the league's best player and the Cavaliers.The Pacers had a gameplan and executed it to perfection as they nullified the Cavs with a terrific effort defensively and scored efficiently on the offensive end.The outcome was a dominant 98-80 win at Quicken Loans Arena where they led from the opening tip.It proved to be a significant loss for LeBron as it was the first time he'd tasted defeat in an opening round playoff encounter since 2012.Coming into this clash, he'd won 21 straight first round games. His last setback came against the New York Knicks six years ago as a member of the Miami Heat.

The four-time MVP put his team on his back as usual and attempted to get them back into the game and with a chance to win.

He posted a triple-double of 24 points, 10 assists and 12 rebounds but it wasn't enough against an Indiana team inspired by Victor Oladipo.

The shooting guard was the best player on the floor and ended the night with a game-high 32 points, as well as six rebounds, four assists and four steals.

The former Oklahoma City Thunder man outplayed James in the fourth quarter as he put up 10 points on 4-for-5 shooting compared to James who had just four points on 1-for-3 shooting in the final frame.

Oladipo is the front-runner for this year's Most Improved Player award and is now delivering on the biggest stage to establish himself as an elite star in the NBA.

But for LBJ and the Cavs, this loss should be a real concern as they were outclassed in every department and often relied too heavily on their superstar.

They rallied at the end of the third quarter and went on a 24-10 run to end the period but Oladipo put an end to any comeback.

The end of King James' first round winning streak was a major talking point on social media with many criticising the Cavaliers for their display.

Having lost home-court advantage, Cleveland can't afford to go into Indianapolis with a 0-2 deficit and game two will become a must-win scenario on Wednesday night.

There's no doubt that LeBron will bring his best but it really does depend on his supporting cast and where they can get more scoring from.

Kevin Love struggled offensively last night and needs to be that second option to give them a chance of coming back in the series.

They were booed by sections of the Cavs fans and they'll be under pressure to put on a better showing in front of them on Wednesday night.

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