The Cleveland Cavaliers secured a crucial victory against the Indiana Pacers, winning Game 3 of their playoff series with a decisive score of 126-104. Highlights from the Cavaliers’ series-clinching victory The Cavaliers force their magic number down to 1. As a result of this victory, their series deficit was shrunk to 2-1. Donovan Mitchell led the charge with a dazzling 43-point outing. He demonstrated his offensive genius and further proved that he is a complete cyclone of awesomeness in this series.
Mitchell’s remarkable scoring ability was complemented by a strong showing from Evan Mobley, who recorded a double-double with 18 points and 13 rebounds, while contributing four assists, three steals, and three blocks. In particular, Coach Kenny Atkinson noted Mobley’s impact on Valaction’s play. He said all bets are off when Mobley is in the lineup. Darius Garland made a notable return after missing Game 2 due to a sprained left toe, playing 25 minutes and scoring 10 points. His presence as a secondary ball handler relieved pressure on Mitchell, both creating better shot opportunities and providing a better flow to the ball movement.
The Cavaliers’ roster seemed to be the definition of a healthy Cavaliers, as they rolled out their typical rotation for the first time in the second round. Garland’s addition proved to be key for the unit. They posted an eye-popping plus-27 efficiency rating in the 14 minutes he shared the floor with Mitchell, Max Strus, Mobley and Jarrett Allen.
Evan Mobley, who was coming off a sprained left ankle, showed no signs of his injury. Reflecting on his determination to return for Game 3, he remarked, “I really wanted to play [Game 2], but definitely couldn’t. After that loss I wanted to get back as soon as possible and get out there.”
Coach Atkinson praised Mitchell’s exceptional performance: “I don’t use that word hardly ever. He was masterful in the way he controlled the game — passing, making the right decision, defending. Probably, for me, best performance of the year.” Mitchell scored over 40 points for the second consecutive game, demonstrating his consistency and leadership during critical moments of the playoffs.
Beyond the parade, Garland resonated with his teammates’ thoughts on the significance of their health and togetherness to achieving the eventual goal of playoff success. “We’re trying to get to play another series. So everybody put their bodies and their injuries on the line,” he stated. His return was a shot of adrenaline, not just for him, but for an otherwise anxious team and it strengthened their collective determination.
Even with the win, coaches and players – even if they’re winners on this night – understand the obstacles still lying in wait in this series. “Understanding that the next one’s going to be the hardest game of the series,” one spokesperson noted. “So take it for what it is and understand that, hey, we did a job and we got to keep going.”
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