Cavaliers Fight to Show They Ain't Dead - in Game 3 Showdown Against Pacers - African American Facts Not Taught in Public Schools

Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Indiana Pacers is set for tonight, Friday, May 9, 2025, at 7:30 PM ET at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Pacers currently lead the series 2-0, having secured two road victories in Cleveland. Game 3 will be broadcast on ESPN and available for streaming on NBA League Pass and Fubo TV. SI+6Fear The Sword+6Sportskeeda+6 Axios Sportskeeda

🏀 Game 3 Preview & Expert Analysis

The Cavaliers face a critical juncture in their playoff run, trailing 0-2 in the series. In Game 2, they suffered a heartbreaking 120-119 loss, despite leading by seven points with under a minute remaining. Tyrese Haliburton’s game-winning three-pointer capped an 8-0 run by the Pacers in the final moments. Fear The Sword CBSSports.com CBSSports.com

Injuries have plagued the Cavaliers, with key players Darius Garland (toe), Evan Mobley (ankle), and De’Andre Hunter (hand) all listed as questionable. However, all three participated in Friday morning’s shootaround, indicating potential returns. Donovan Mitchell, despite battling a calf strain, is expected to play and will need to lead the team’s efforts. Diario AS+3Fear The Sword+3Fear The Sword+3

The Pacers, energized by their recent victories, aim to capitalize on their home-court advantage. A win tonight would give them a commanding 3-0 series lead, a deficit no NBA team has ever overcome.

📊 Betting Odds & Predictions

Moneyline: Cavaliers (-135) vs. Pacers (+115)
Spread: Cavaliers -2
Over/Under: 229.5 pointsSportskeeda CBSSports.com+3NBC Sports+3Axios+3

Despite the series deficit, oddsmakers slightly favor the Cavaliers, reflecting expectations of a strong response. However, the Pacers’ momentum and home advantage make them formidable opponents. Covers.com

🔍 Key Players to Watch

Donovan Mitchell (Cavaliers): Averaging 48 points in Game 2, Mitchell’s leadership and scoring are vital, especially if other starters remain sidelined.
Tyrese Haliburton (Pacers): His clutch performance in Game 2 underscores his importance as both a scorer and facilitator.
Aaron Nesmith (Pacers): Shooting an impressive 64.2% from three-point range in the series, Nesmith’s perimeter play stretches defenses. New York Post
Jarrett Allen (Cavaliers): With injuries to key teammates, Allen’s role in anchoring the defense and contributing offensively becomes even more critical.