The Cleveland Cavaliers welcomed back key players Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De'Andre Hunter for Game 3 of their second-round series against the Indiana Pacers. All three had missed Game 2 due to various injuries, but they returned to action with Garland and Mobley reclaiming their spots in the starting lineup. Head coach Kenny Atkinson had emphasized the importance of their pregame workout before confirming their availability, and their return provided a much-needed boost for the team.
Garland, who had been sidelined since the first round due to a sprained left toe, showcased his scoring ability and playmaking skills in his return to the court. Meanwhile, Mobley and Hunter both battled through injuries sustained in Game 1, with Atkinson expressing frustration over the lack of foul calls on the plays that led to their ailments. With the trio back in action, the Cavaliers sought to bounce back from a disappointing Game 2 loss and close the series gap against the Pacers as they pushed for a comeback in the playoff series.