The Cleveland Cavaliers are back in action tonight as they face the Indiana Pacers in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, hoping to claw back in the series after falling into a 2-0 hole. With their star players Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De'Andre Hunter returning from injuries, the Cavs are poised to make a strong push for their first win of the series.
Garland, who has been sidelined since April 23 due to a sprained left toe, averaged an impressive 24 points and seven assists in his two playoff games prior to his injury. Mobley, the reigning NBA Defensive Player of the Year, sprained his left ankle during Game 1 against the Pacers, while Hunter suffered a sprained right thumb in the same game.
Cavs head coach Kenny Atkinson expressed optimism about the trio's return, stating, "They all touched the ball, they all got some reps up, but we didn't do anything live, so they kind of participated in the walk-through and hoping for the best." After pregame warm-ups, the decision was made for all three to play in Game 3, a crucial moment for the Cavs as they look to shift momentum in the series.
In Game 2, the Cavs struggled without their key players, blowing a 20-point lead and ultimately losing the game. The Pacers capitalized on Cleveland's injuries, rallying from a seven-point deficit in the final minute to secure victory, thanks in large part to a last-second three-pointer by Tyrese Haliburton.
As the teams prepare for tonight's matchup at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. The Cavaliers will start with Garland, Donovan Mitchell, Max Strus, Mobley, and Jarrett Allen on the floor. This lineup is expected to bring a renewed energy and skill set that was sorely missed in the previous game.
Meanwhile, the Pacers are looking to maintain their momentum. They have shown resilience and depth in their previous victories, making them a formidable opponent. The Cavaliers will need to tighten their defense and play smart basketball to counteract Indiana's offensive strategies.
In addition to the excitement surrounding the game, there are ongoing discussions about officiating standards in the playoffs. Mark Daigneault, head coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder, addressed the media about the influence of teams trying to sway officials’ calls through media narratives. He stated, "I know that’s been a story to this point, and teams use the media to try to gain an edge in the playoffs. But the way we’re looking at it is these are the best officials in the league. If they’re influenced by that, then there’s a problem. They shouldn’t be working the game. We trust that they’re going to go out there and call the game fairly and consistently."
As the playoffs progress, the importance of fair officiating becomes even more critical. Coaches and players alike are keenly aware that every call can sway the outcome of a game, especially in high-stakes situations like the current playoff series.
Additionally, the conversation around player fouls and how they are called is heating up. David Adelman, assistant coach for the Minnesota Timberwolves, commented on the tactics employed by players like Lu Dort, who is known for drawing fouls. He remarked, "I mean, there’s a lot of guys that are foul artists on both ends. I’m not concerned about if he’s gonna get one a game or whatever it is. You just hope that if they’re calling that, maybe they’ll take a look at how he’s guarding them all. There’s two sides to that. There’s the illegal screen part of it, and there’s the holding, grabbing part of it."
With the Cavaliers looking to make a statement in Game 3, all eyes will be on Garland, Mobley, and Hunter as they step back onto the court. Their presence is expected to significantly impact the game, and fans are eager to see if they can help the Cavaliers turn the tide in this series.
As the clock ticks down to game time, excitement builds in Indianapolis. The Cavaliers are determined to avoid falling into a 3-0 deficit, while the Pacers aim to continue their winning streak. The stage is set for a thrilling encounter that could define the series.
Tonight’s game will be broadcast on ESPN, starting at 7:30 p.m. Eastern. Fans can expect an electrifying atmosphere as both teams battle for supremacy in one of the most competitive playoff series in recent memory. Will the Cavaliers find their footing and claim their first victory of the series, or will the Pacers extend their lead? Only time will tell.
