Cavaliers Return Full Strength for Crucial Game 3 vs Pacers

The Cleveland Cavaliers enter Game 3 of their Eastern Conference semifinals series against the Indiana Pacers with significant reinforcements, as Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De’Andre Hunter are all available despite recent injuries. Garland, sidelined since April 23 with a sprained big toe, and Mobley and Hunter, both injured in Game 1, participated fully in pregame warmups and shootarounds, allowing them to start the crucial game. Head coach Kenny Atkinson emphasized the importance of communication to manage their minutes, especially Garland’s, who has been using a zero-gravity treadmill to maintain conditioning. The Pacers, holding a 2-0 series lead and coming off two strong wins in Cleveland, anticipate a desperate Cavaliers squad and are preparing to face their best effort, with star guard Tyrese Haliburton acknowledging the challenge despite his own wrist injury. Game 3 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse is pivotal, with both teams recognizing the high stakes and the need to adapt strategies to either maintain momentum or stave off elimination. The outcome could significantly influence the trajectory of the series, highlighting the importance of key players' health and performance on both sides.