Cavaliers Hopeful for Key Player Returns in Pivotal Game 3 Against Pacers

The Cleveland Cavaliers face a daunting task, trailing 0-2 in their 2025 NBA Playoff series against the Indiana Pacers. However, there’s a glimmer of hope for the Cavaliers as they head to Indianapolis for Game 3 on Friday night. The potential return of key players sidelined by injury could provide a much-needed boost to the Eastern Conference’s top-seeded team.

After suffering consecutive losses in Cleveland to begin the conference semifinals, the Cavaliers are desperate to turn the tide. Their Game 2 defeat, a narrow 120-119 loss, was particularly challenging as they played without three key contributors: Darius Garland, DeAndre Hunter, and Evan Mobley. Hunter (thumb) and Mobley (ankle) sustained their injuries during Game 1, while Garland has yet to appear in the series due to a lingering toe injury.

Despite the setbacks, the Cavaliers received some encouraging news on Friday morning. Garland, Hunter, and Mobley were all observed participating in the team’s shootaround in Indianapolis, according to reports from the Akron Beacon-Journal. While their official status for Game 3 remains uncertain until after pregame warmups, scheduled closer to the 7:30 p.m. ET tip-off, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported on "The Pat McAfee Show" that all three players are "aiming to play" given the Cavaliers’ precarious situation.

Cleveland coach Kenny Atkinson had previously mentioned that the trio participated in Thursday’s shootaround as well, though he refrained from offering a definitive confirmation regarding their potential return. "They all got some reps up, but we didn’t do anything live. They kind of participated in the walk through, and [we’re] hoping for the best," Atkinson stated.

Garland’s absence has been particularly felt, as he has now missed four consecutive playoff games after re-aggravating a toe injury during the Cavaliers’ first-round series against the Miami Heat. The All-Star point guard was seen jogging on a treadmill during shootaround before Game 2, but he did not suit up for the game. His availability for Game 3 remains questionable, as he is listed as such on the Cavaliers’ injury report.

Hunter’s injury occurred during a hard fall in Game 1, when his shot was blocked by Pacers rookie Bennedict Mathurin, resulting in a sprained right thumb. Despite initially expressing optimism about avoiding any missed games, Hunter was ultimately sidelined for Game 2. His presence on the court, particularly his defensive prowess, would be a significant asset for the Cavaliers.

Mobley, the Cavaliers’ All-Star big man, suffered a sprained left ankle in Game 1 after landing awkwardly while attempting a hook shot and stepping on the foot of Pacers center Myles Turner. Charania has described Mobley’s availability for Game 3 as "the biggest question" for the Cavaliers. His ability to protect the rim and contribute on offense is crucial to Cleveland’s success.

The potential return of these three players would undoubtedly provide a much-needed spark for the Cavaliers, who are facing a must-win situation in Game 3. However, even if they are cleared to play, their effectiveness may be limited by their injuries. It remains to be seen how much they will be able to contribute and whether they will be able to withstand the intensity of a playoff game.

The Pacers, on the other hand, are riding high after their two victories in Cleveland. They have demonstrated their offensive firepower and their ability to capitalize on the Cavaliers’ weaknesses. Led by their dynamic backcourt and a balanced scoring attack, the Pacers are confident in their ability to maintain their series lead.

The Cavaliers will need to make significant adjustments on both offense and defense if they hope to get back into the series. They must find a way to contain the Pacers’ high-scoring guards and limit their transition opportunities. On offense, they need to improve their shot selection and execution, and they must find ways to create more scoring opportunities for players other than Donovan Mitchell.

The atmosphere in Indianapolis for Game 3 is expected to be electric, with Pacers fans eager to see their team take a commanding 3-0 lead in the series. The Cavaliers will need to overcome not only their injuries but also the hostile environment if they hope to emerge victorious.

This series has already been filled with drama and excitement, and Game 3 promises to be another intense battle. The Cavaliers’ potential to have some key players return makes this a very important game. Whether those players return and play to the level needed, will decide the series direction.

The Cavaliers’ coaching staff will need to carefully manage the minutes of Garland, Hunter, and Mobley, ensuring that they do not overexert themselves and risk further injury. They will also need to rely on their depth and find contributions from other players on the roster.

Ultimately, the Cavaliers’ fate in this series may hinge on the health and performance of their key players. If Garland, Hunter, and Mobley can return to form and contribute at a high level, the Cavaliers have a chance to climb back into the series. However, if they are limited by their injuries or if the Pacers continue to play at a high level, the Cavaliers could find themselves facing a quick exit from the playoffs.