The Milwaukee Bucks gave the Indiana Pacers a run for their money but wound up on the losing end 101-96 on Thursday night in Indianapolis.
Roy Hibbert had 24 points and 12 rebounds and Paul George and Lance Stephenson added 18 points each for the Pacers (44-13) who improved to an NBA-best 28-3 at home.
The Pacers blew a 17-point lead, fell behind by 6 in the 3rd quarter, then rebounded for the win.
Brandon Knight had 23 points and Khris Middleton added 22 for the Bucks.
Butler waived
The Bucks waived forward Caron Butler on Thursday after agreeing to a contract buyout. Butler made 13 starts and appeared in 34 games this season, averaging 11.0 points and 4.6 rebounds a game.
After a 48-hour period to clear waivers, Butler will be able to sign with another NBA team. The Miami Heat and Oklahoma City Thunder both are reportedly interested.
The Bucks acquired Butler in a trade during the off-season.