Cleveland Cavaliers Secure Crucial Game 3 Victory Over Indiana Pacers
The Cleveland Cavaliers, facing a 2-0 deficit in the Eastern Conference semifinals, delivered a commanding performance on Friday night, defeating the Indiana Pacers 126-104 in Game 3. The victory, achieved at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, marked the Cavaliers’ first win of the series and showcased their full-strength roster for the first time since April 23.
Donovan Mitchell’s Stellar Performance
Leading the charge for Cleveland was Donovan Mitchell, who recorded an impressive 43 points, nine rebounds, and five assists. This marked Mitchell’s second consecutive 40-point game in the playoffs, a feat only previously achieved by LeBron James in Cavaliers history. Mitchell’s scoring prowess was instrumental in maintaining the Cavaliers’ lead, particularly during a critical fourth-quarter stretch when the Pacers threatened a comeback.
“Couldn’t let that happen again,” Mitchell said postgame, referencing the Cavaliers’ Game 2 collapse. “It wasn’t just me. We got stops, made plays—a collective effort on that part.”
Evan Mobley’s Impactful Return
Another key contributor was Evan Mobley, who returned from an ankle injury sustained in Game 1. Mobley recorded a double-double with 18 points and 13 rebounds, along with three blocks and three steals. His defensive presence was pivotal, particularly during the second quarter when the Cavaliers switched to a zone defense that stifled Indiana’s offense. Mobley’s ability to disrupt passing lanes and protect the rim forced the Pacers into numerous turnovers and poor shot selections.
“Mobley’s impact was felt on both ends of the floor,” said Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson. “His defensive IQ and timing were game-changing.”
Defensive Adjustments Define the Game
The Cavaliers’ defensive adjustments in the second quarter proved decisive. Atkinson’s decision to implement a 3-2 zone defense limited the Pacers to just 13 points in the period, allowing Cleveland to build a significant lead. Indiana, which boasts one of the postseason’s top offenses, struggled to adapt to the Cavaliers’ defensive scheme.
“We played with our defensive identity, our force, our energy,” Atkinson noted. “That’s what we’ve been emphasizing all season.”
Contributions from Key Players
In addition to Mitchell and Mobley, other Cavaliers players made notable contributions. Max Strus added 20 points, including a crucial three-pointer during the fourth quarter that halted a Pacers rally. Darius Garland, returning from a toe injury, chipped in 10 points despite limited minutes due to foul trouble. Jarrett Allen also recorded a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds.
“Everybody put their bodies and their injuries on the line,” Garland said. “We fought through it and came out with a win.”
Pacers Struggle Despite Home Advantage
The Pacers, led by Bennedict Mathurin’s 23 points off the bench, struggled to find consistency throughout the game. Pascal Siakam contributed 18 points, while Myles Turner added 15, including a strong start with 12 points in the first quarter. However, Indiana’s star guard Tyrese Haliburton was held to just four points on 2-of-8 shooting, a testament to Cleveland’s defensive focus.
Looking Ahead to Game 4
With the series now at 2-1, the Cavaliers aim to build on their momentum in Game 4, scheduled for Sunday in Indiana. Mitchell emphasized the importance of maintaining focus, stating, “We’re not celebrating. We came here to take two games.”
The Cavaliers’ Game 3 performance has reignited their playoff hopes, showcasing their potential as a cohesive and resilient unit. As the series progresses, Cleveland’s ability to sustain this level of play will be critical in their quest to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals.
Source: NBA, cleveland.com