The Cleveland Cavaliers are back in the playoff hunt after a commanding 126-104 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference semifinals series. This win marks a significant turnaround for the Cavaliers, who had lost the first two games of the series at home and now find themselves trailing 2-1 in this best-of-seven matchup.
On Friday, May 9, 2025, the Cavaliers welcomed back key players Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and DeAndre Hunter, who had all missed Game 2 due to injuries. Their return proved pivotal as the Cavaliers displayed their full strength on the court. Donovan Mitchell, the team's star guard, led the charge with an impressive performance, scoring 42 points, grabbing nine rebounds, and dishing out five assists. This marks Mitchell's second consecutive game with over 40 points, joining LeBron James as the only players in Cavaliers history to achieve this feat in back-to-back playoff games.
The game was a tale of two halves, with the Cavaliers breaking away in the second quarter. After a competitive first quarter that saw the teams trade leads, Cleveland exploded for a 34-13 advantage in the second. This surge allowed them to establish a comfortable lead that the Pacers could never recover from. By halftime, all five Cavaliers starters had reached double figures, showcasing the depth and talent of the roster.
Max Strus also contributed significantly to the victory, scoring 20 points and hitting several three-pointers alongside Mitchell, who went 14-for-29 from the field. The Cavaliers' shooting was on point, with Mitchell and Strus combining for nine three-pointers, a key factor in their offensive dominance.
On the other side, the Pacers struggled to find their rhythm. Tyrese Haliburton, who had been a standout performer in the first two games, was held to just four points in this contest. While Indiana's second unit made a push in the fourth quarter, cutting the deficit to 11 points, it was too little, too late. The Cavaliers maintained their composure and closed out the game decisively.
Looking ahead, the series continues with Game 4 scheduled for Sunday evening, May 11, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET. The Pacers will be eager to bounce back on their home court, while the Cavaliers aim to even the series. With the momentum swinging in Cleveland's favor, the stakes are high for both teams as they vie for a crucial victory.
This playoff series has been characterized by intense competition, with the Pacers winning the first two games in Cleveland. Game 1 on May 4 ended with a score of 121-112 in favor of Indiana, and Game 2 was a nail-biter that saw the Pacers edge out the Cavaliers 120-119. The Cavaliers' ability to respond in Game 3 sets the stage for a dramatic continuation of the series.
As the playoffs progress, fans are treated to thrilling basketball action, and the rivalry between these Central Division foes is heating up. The Cavaliers, with their star-studded lineup, are looking to build on this victory, while the Pacers, led by Haliburton, will seek to regain their early series momentum.
In summary, the Cavaliers' decisive win in Game 3 has reignited their playoff hopes and sets up an exciting Game 4. With both teams having shown their capabilities, the upcoming match promises to be a thrilling encounter as they battle for supremacy in the Eastern Conference semifinals.
