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Game 3 Recap: Cavaliers Dominate Pacers 126–104 to Narrow Series Gap with Donovan Mitchell Performance
In a pivotal Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, the Cleveland Cavaliers delivered a commanding performance, defeating the Indiana Pacers 126–104. This victory narrows the series deficit to 2–1, showcasing the Cavaliers’ resilience and strategic prowess.
Donovan Mitchell’s Stellar Performance
Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers with 43 points, nine rebounds, and five assists, marking his second consecutive 40-point game in the series. This achievement places him alongside LeBron James as the only Cavaliers to record back-to-back 40-point games in the postseason.
Defensive Mastery: The 3-2 Zone
The Cavaliers’ implementation of a 3-2 zone defense disrupted the Pacers’ offensive rhythm. Evan Mobley’s versatility at the top of the zone limited driving lanes and contested perimeter shots, contributing to Indiana’s struggles from beyond the arc.
Return of Key Players
The return of Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De’Andre Hunter bolstered the Cavaliers’ lineup. Mobley contributed 18 points and 13 rebounds, while Garland added 10 points, providing balance and depth to the team’s rotation .
Statistical Highlights
- Rebounds: Cavaliers 56, Pacers 37
- Offensive Rebounds: Cavaliers 18, Pacers 4
- Bench Points: Cavaliers 16, Pacers 41
The Cavaliers’ dominance on the boards and effective utilization of second-chance opportunities were critical factors in their victory .
Pacers’ Struggles
Indiana’s offense faltered, with Tyrese Haliburton limited to four points. Despite Bennedict Mathurin’s 23 points off the bench, the Pacers couldn’t overcome the Cavaliers’ defensive pressure and rebounding advantage .
Coaching Adjustments
Head coach Kenny Atkinson’s decision to switch to a 3-2 zone defense and reintegrate key players paid dividends. The strategic changes disrupted Indiana’s offensive flow and allowed Cleveland to control the game’s tempo .
Looking Ahead
With the series now at 2–1, the Cavaliers aim to build on this momentum in Game 4. Continued defensive intensity and balanced scoring will be essential as they seek to even the series.
The Cleveland Cavaliers dominated Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, defeating the Indiana Pacers 126–104 to cut the series deficit to 2–1. Donovan Mitchell led the way with 43 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists — his second straight 40-point playoff game — tying LeBron James’ franchise record.
The return of Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De’Andre Hunter proved critical. Mobley posted a double-double (18 points, 13 rebounds), while Cleveland’s switch to a 3-2 zone defense stifled Indiana’s offense, holding Tyrese Haliburton to just 4 points. The Cavaliers also dominated the boards (56–37), including 18 offensive rebounds.
Though Bennedict Mathurin scored 23 off the bench for Indiana, the Pacers never recovered from a 34–13 second-quarter onslaught by Cleveland. The Cavaliers controlled tempo, dictated defense, and executed better across the board.
With the series now 2–1, Cleveland will look to even things up in Game 4, while Indiana needs to regroup and adjust to the Cavs’ defensive pressure and improved lineup health.