The Cleveland Cavaliers beat the Indiana Pacers 126-104 in Game 3 of their second-round series. Cleveland secured a much-needed win bringing the series to 2-1 in favor of Indiana. Donovan Mitchell lead the way for the Cavaliers on Friday, scoring 43 points in the win, his second straight game scoring more than 40. Evan Mobley chipped in 18 in his return to the lineup, but Mitchell had to pick up Darius Garland’s slack after his running mate put himself into foul trouble in the first half.
Despite losing two of the first three games in the series, a serious argument can be made that Mitchell has been the best player in the series. Over three games, the All-Star’s averages are excellent. He is averaging 41.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, 6 assists, and 2 steals in the series.
Mitchell and the Cavaliers were the most dominant team in the Eastern Conference throughout the season. Cleveland even held the top spot in the NBA for a while before the Oklahoma City Thunder knocked them off. Their excellent regular season is a big reason why their struggles in the series come as a shock to fans.
While the Cavaliers are a well-oiled machine, the Pacers deserve a lot of credit. Tyrese Haliburton and Co. put together a masterful fourth quarter in Game 2, sneaking back into the game and stealing it in the final seconds. However, Mitchell showed on Friday why Cleveland can still to move on to the Eastern Conference Finals.
Mitchell has a history of great playoff performances, but his supporting cast needs to show up around him. Garland’s foul trouble didn’t cost them in Game 3, but if it happens again, the Cavaliers could find themselves at a distinct disadvantage.
After Friday’s game, the series between Cleveland and Indiana has become one of the most exciting in the second round. If Mitchell maintains his averages, the Cavaliers have all they need to punch their ticket to the Eastern Conference Finals.
