In a show of force, the Cleveland Cavaliers secured a resounding victory in Game 3 against the Indiana Pacers, with a final score of 126-104. This triumph represents the Cavaliers’ first win in the Eastern Conference semifinals.
The return of Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De’Andre Hunter, after overcoming injuries, was key to the team’s success. The presence of these players, along with Donovan Mitchell’s impressive 43 points, revitalized the Cavaliers.
It’s great to have those guys back. They give us a big boost, they give me a big boost. I go to war with these guys. I trust everyone in this locker room. And we saw it tonight, but in the end we have to do it again.
Donovan Mitchell
Cleveland’s victory cuts the series deficit to 2-1, with Game 4 scheduled for Sunday night in Indianapolis.
Garland and Mobley regained their starting positions, with Garland scoring 10 points in 25 minutes and Mobley recording 18 points, 13 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals, and 3 blocks. Hunter also contributed eight points and five rebounds off the bench.
Coach Kenny Atkinson highlighted that the Cavaliers are a “different team” with Garland, Mobley, and Hunter, and admitted that the decision about his participation was made shortly before the game.
Garland, who had not played in the series and returned after a toe injury, played despite the discomfort. Atkinson acknowledged the player’s sacrifice, while Garland attributed his participation to the need to compete in the series.
We are trying to play another series. So everyone put their bodies and their injuries on the line.
Darius Garland
Garland’s presence as a secondary ball-handler relieved pressure on Mitchell, allowing him to be effective in the final quarter. Mitchell, for his part, scored over 40 points for the second consecutive game, leading Atkinson to call the game the best he’s seen from his star this season.
I thought it was masterful. I don’t usually use that word. It was masterful in the way he controlled the game: passing, making the right decision, defending. Probably, for me, the best performance of the year.
Kenny Atkinson
Mobley, recognized as the Defensive Player of the Year, also had a prominent role on both sides of the court. Mobley admitted to having issues with a sprained ankle, but recovered quickly to play.
Hunter, who returned after a thumb injury, along with Max Strus and Mobley, contributed to a solid defense that limited Tyrese Haliburton to just four points.
Although Atkinson highlighted that the Cavaliers played like the best team in the Eastern Conference with their full team, Mitchell emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and seeking victory in the next game.
We haven’t done anything. We won a game. We have to do it again. That’s been my message. We’re not celebrating, we’re not smiling. We came here to win two games, and we did one.
Donovan Mitchell
