Cavs’ Injured Trio Optimistic for Game 3 Against Pacers

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio — The Cleveland Cavaliers‘ injured trio, including All-Star guard Darius Garland, participated in a shootaround Thursday ahead of Game 3 in their Eastern Conference semifinal against the Indiana Pacers.

Coach Kenny Atkinson confirmed that Garland, along with Evan Mobley and De’Andre Hunter, took part in the walkthrough, saying, “They all touched the ball. They all got some reps up. But we didn’t do anything live, so they kind of participated in the walkthrough. Hoping for the best.”

Garland has missed the last four playoff games due to a sprained big toe and his status remains unclear. Since re-aggravating the injury on April 23, he has faced difficulty with pain and swelling that impact his movements. “It’s both pieces,” Atkinson said regarding the decision for Garland to play, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with medical staff and personal judgment.

In the playoffs, Garland averaged 24.0 points and 7.0 assists per game before his injury. The Cavs are currently 2-2 without him. Atkinson noted that Garland is actively trying to maintain his conditioning with non-impact workouts. “He desperately wants to get on the court,” he said.

Both Mobley and Hunter suffered injuries in a short span during the fourth quarter of Game 1. Mobley, named the league’s Defensive Player of the Year, sprained his left ankle, while Hunter dislocated his right thumb. In their absence, the Cavaliers have struggled, losing both of their first playoff games this series.

Atkinson expressed frustration about the injuries, particularly concerning the non-calls that led to them. “Even if it’s not malice, we need to see our best players playing in the playoffs,” he said.

Donovan Mitchell, who played through a calf strain, was the last player to leave the court on Thursday, and Atkinson does not expect him to be affected going into Game 3. The Cavaliers trail the series 0-2, making their need for a complete roster even more pressing.