Cavs’ Trio Returns to Ignite Game 3 Victory
In a thrilling turn of events, the Cleveland Cavaliers welcomed back three of their key players, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De’Andre Hunter, for Game 3 of their second-round series against the Indiana Pacers. Their return was nothing short of electrifying as they helped propel the Cavs to a commanding 126-104 victory, cutting the series deficit to 2-1.
Garland and Mobley resumed their roles in the starting lineup, with Garland contributing 10 points in 25 minutes. Mobley, showcasing his prowess, delivered an impressive performance with 18 points, 13 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals, and 3 blocks. Meanwhile, Hunter added eight points and five rebounds off the bench, providing a much-needed boost to the team’s efforts.
Before the game, Cleveland head coach Kenny Atkinson had indicated that all three players would undergo a pregame workout to determine their availability. This cautious approach paid off as the trio’s presence on the court was a game-changer for the Cavaliers.
Garland’s return marked his first appearance in this series, having been sidelined since Game 2 of the first round on April 23 due to a sprained left toe. In his two playoff games prior to the injury, Garland had been averaging 24 points and seven assists on 51% shooting, including 41% from beyond the arc.
Both Mobley and Hunter sustained injuries during the fourth quarter of Game 1, with Atkinson expressing his belief that the contact was excessive, although no fouls were called. Mobley, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, sprained his left ankle after landing on Pacers center Myles Turner following a jump shot. Hunter, on the other hand, sprained his right thumb after having a layup attempt blocked by Pacers guard Bennedict Mathurin.
Despite being listed as questionable for Friday’s game, all three players participated in the team’s shootaround earlier in the day, signaling a positive step forward after missing Game 2. Their absence in that game was felt deeply as the Cavs squandered a 20-point first-half lead, including a seven-point collapse in the final 50 seconds.
- Garland’s playoff stats before injury: 24 points, 7 assists, 51% shooting, 41% from 3-point range.
- Mobley’s Game 3 performance: 18 points, 13 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals, 3 blocks.
- Hunter’s contribution off the bench: 8 points, 5 rebounds.
The return of these players not only bolstered the Cavaliers’ lineup but also reignited the team’s spirit and determination. With the series now at 2-1, the Cavs are poised to build on this momentum as they continue their playoff journey.
Originally Written by: Jamal Collier
