Cavs Face Key Injuries Ahead of Game 2

The Cleveland Cavaliers are facing significant injury concerns ahead of Game 2 of their Eastern Conference semifinals against the Indiana Pacers, with Evan Mobley (ankle), De'Andre Hunter (thumb), and Darius Garland (toe) all listed as questionable after a physical Game 1 loss. Head coach Kenny Atkinson criticized the officiating, claiming the excessive physicality contributed to the injuries but did not call the plays dirty. Mobley, the NBA's Defensive Player of the Year, has averaged 18.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists this season and is pivotal to the Cavs' success. Both Mobley and Hunter suffered their injuries in the fourth quarter, leaving Cleveland potentially short-handed for the pivotal matchup. All three players are considered game-time decisions, increasing pressure as the Cavaliers attempt to even the series. The outcome of their fitness could significantly affect Cleveland's playoff hopes.