The Indiana Pacers are set to host the Cleveland Cavaliers tonight in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. After two thrilling victories in Cleveland, the Pacers lead the series 2-0 and aim to capitalize on their stolen home-court advantage.
Game 2 Recap
In Game 2, the Pacers orchestrated a stunning comeback, overcoming a seven-point deficit in the final minute to secure a 120-119 victory. Tyrese Haliburton was instrumental, scoring 11 of his 19 points in the fourth quarter, including a game-winning three-pointer with just 1.1 seconds remaining. This remarkable finish marked the second game this post-season where Haliburton stole victory from the jaws of defeat in the closing moments.
Despite Donovan Mitchell's impressive 48-point performance for the Cavaliers, Cleveland struggled with efficiency, particularly from beyond the arc, shooting just 28.2% on three-pointers.
Game 3 Preview:
Facing a two-game deficit, Cleveland looks to bounce back on the road. The return of key players like Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De'Andre Hunter, who participated in the morning shootaround, could bolster their efforts. Though how effective they'll be operating at less than 100% is left to be seen.
The Pacers return to Gainbridge Fieldhouse, where they held a 29-11 record during the regular season and have not lost in the playoffs in the past two years. The energy of the home crowd is among the best in the NBA and always seems to propel the team to greater heights.
It's almost trite to say that the Pacers usually lose concentration in games like this. It's the one weakness (other than maybe backup center) that consistently hampers the Pacers' efforts. If there were ever a time to show growth, tonight would be a good time to land a haymaker against an opponent on the ropes. Carlisle is certainly doing his part to remind his team that they are in fact underdogs and shouldn't get complacent.
"They're a 64-win team. They've got 3 All-Stars, a fourth if you count Allen... we've been an underdog in every game in this series, including tonight. It's hard," Carlisle says of this series and the challenge tonight. "We've just got to be really on point with how we play."
— Tony East (@TonyREast) May 9, 2025
This is neither here nor there, but I had a dream last night that Bennedict Mathurin went for 40 points. If you believe in my prophetic powers, expect the 3rd year guard to have a statement performance.
Injuries
The Pacers are healthy. At the time of writing, the Cavs haven't made an official decision on Garland, Hunter or Mobley but the way Atkinson is talking, it sure seems like they'll play.
Atkinson asked if there will be a minutes restriction on Garland, Mobley and Hunter. Said that will be a feel. There will be communication. But says they will be slotted for their normal minutes.
— Dustin Dopirak (@DustinDopirak) May 9, 2025
How to Watch
Tipoff is at 7:30 PM ET.
TV: ESPN
Radio: 93.5/107.5 The Fan
See ya in the comments!
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