The Cleveland Cavaliers and Indiana Pacers face off for Game 3 of their 2025 NBA Playoffs series on Friday, May 9, 2025. This game is crucial, with Indiana leading the series after stunning Cleveland at home. Fans and bettors are tuned in as the Cavaliers try to regain their footing on the road at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. With injuries and momentum swings in play, Game 3 promises high drama and plenty of action for both teams.
Oddsmakers have set a tight spread after two consecutive Pacers wins. Cleveland opened as a 2.5-point favorite even after losing the first two games at home. All eyes are on key players, including Tyrese Haliburton and Donovan Mitchell, as supporters and bettors look to make sense of the betting lines, injury news, and trends. Action tips off at 7:30 p.m. ET in front of a lively Indiana crowd.
Game 3 Schedule and Start Time
Game 3 of the Cavaliers vs Pacers second-round playoff series tips off at 7:30 p.m. ET on Friday, May 9, 2025. The matchup will unfold at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the Pacers’ home arena in Indianapolis. With the Pacers up 2-0, the crowd will be ready to make it as tough as possible for the visiting Cavaliers.
The NBA scheduled this game for prime time, giving both fanbases a chance to tune in. Doors open roughly 90 minutes before tip, allowing for a strong pre-game atmosphere as these two teams continue their postseason battle. No matter the result, fans in Indiana are expecting another high-scoring, competitive contest tonight.
Those attending in person can expect increased security and special playoff festivities both within and around Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Ticket sales surged following Indiana’s comeback win in Game 2. For those watching from home, both local broadcasts and national coverage will keep fans engaged.
Current Betting Odds and Lines
According to DraftKings Sportsbook and other major lines, the Cavaliers are 2.5-point favorites entering Game 3, despite back-to-back losses. The over/under is set at 226.5 points, reflecting the offensive firepower both squads have shown. The moneyline odds currently list Cleveland at -157, while the Pacers are priced at +132.
Below is a simple table detailing the main game lines:
| Team | Spread | Moneyline | O/U |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cavaliers | -2.5 | -157 | 226.5 |
| Pacers | +2.5 | +132 |
Cleveland had a strong season against the spread at 51-36-1, while Indiana covered 41-45-3 times. Both teams played above expectations during crucial moments, making tonight’s game one of the more unpredictable matchups in the postseason thus far.
The lines reflect both recent results and injury uncertainty. Markets have moved slightly after the Pacers’ big win, but the Cavaliers’ playoff-tested core is still favored by most sportsbooks. Bettors should monitor possible injury status changes up to tipoff for any last-minute shifts.
Player prop bets, alternate lines, and live in-game betting are especially popular with such a close series. Totals bettors are watching whether the teams continue their fast-paced, high-scoring play or if defenses tighten under playoff pressure.
Recap of Previous Games in the Series
The Pacers are up 2-0 in this playoff series after pulling off two straight wins in Cleveland. Game 1 saw Indiana take early control and never look back, setting the tone for the series by matching up well against Cleveland’s star-driven offense. In Game 2, Indiana launched a huge comeback, erasing a 20-point deficit to win 120-119 on Tyrese Haliburton’s clutch three in the final seconds.
Donovan Mitchell was spectacular for the Cavs in Game 2, scoring 48 points and filling the stat sheet with 9 assists and 4 steals. Jarrett Allen logged another double-double, but it wasn’t enough to hold off Indiana down the stretch. The Cavaliers’ inability to close out the game despite big performances highlights some of the issues they’ll need to address tonight.
The Pacers shot over 50% from the floor in both victories and found key contributions from their bench. With six players averaging double digits in the postseason, Indiana’s balanced attack has frustrated Cleveland so far, even when adjustments have been made between games.
Momentum is firmly on Indiana’s side as the series shifts back to Indianapolis. The Game 2 finish, with an 8-0 closing run and Haliburton’s heroics, makes the Cavs’ job even tougher now that the Pacers have home-court advantage for the next two contests.
Pressure is on the Cavs to bounce back, while Indiana can play with confidence and freedom in front of its home crowd after flipping the series script in Cleveland.
Injury Updates for Cavaliers and Pacers
Several injury designations could affect how Game 3 plays out. For Cleveland, De’Andre Hunter (thumb), Darius Garland (toe), and Evan Mobley (ankle) are all listed as questionable. The loss or limitation of any of these players would force deeper bench reliance and more minutes for supporting pieces.
The Pacers appear healthier coming into Game 3, with their key rotation pieces fit for action. Injury depth matters more in the postseason, and any late news on player availability could impact both the spread and over/under.
- Darius Garland’s scoring and playmaking are crucial to Cleveland’s offense.
- Evan Mobley brings defensive versatility and rebounding.
- Hunter’s shooting and wing depth are vital, especially against Indiana’s spacing.
Coaches are likely to wait until pregame shootaround to make final calls on player statuses. Fans and bettors will keep a close eye on official team accounts and the NBA’s injury report leading up to tipoff.
The Pacers’ key players, including Tyrese Haliburton and Myles Turner, are all expected to be available and play significant minutes as they look to take a 3-0 series lead at home.
Key Players to Watch
Donovan Mitchell remains the Cavaliers’ offensive engine, averaging 29.3 points per game in these playoffs. He’s shown the ability to take over late, and his performance is directly tied to Cleveland’s success. Jarrett Allen has been a consistent presence on the glass and in the paint on both ends of the floor.
For Indiana, Tyrese Haliburton is the difference maker and primary orchestrator. He leads the Pacers with 18.4 points and 10.7 assists per postseason contest. Myles Turner anchors the defense and adds reliable offense, especially when spreading the floor as a shooter.
Indiana’s balanced scoring punch, with six players averaging double digits, forces Cleveland to guard every spot. Bennedict Mathurin and Bruce Brown offer versatility and scoring from the wings. The Pacers’ depth is an ongoing storyline in this series.
If Darius Garland is able to suit up, he provides an additional scoring push for Cleveland and can help distribute the ball, easing the pressure off Mitchell. On Indiana’s side, look for Andrew Nembhard and Obi Toppin as x-factors off the bench in key stretches.
Cavaliers: Strengths and Weaknesses
The Cavaliers’ strengths start with their playoff experience and star talent. Mitchell is an elite scorer and clutch performer. Jarrett Allen provides rim protection and rebounding, making Cleveland tough when defending in the halfcourt. When healthy, Evan Mobley’s length and athleticism add to their defensive identity.
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Cleveland also excels at getting to the free throw line, with Mitchell and Allen frequently drawing contact inside. The Cavs’ bench, with veterans like Caris LeVert, can provide needed scoring and defensive intensity in important moments.
On the other hand, Cleveland’s main weaknesses are perimeter defense and consistent outside shooting. Indiana exploited defensive rotations in the first two games, hitting open threes and forcing the Cavs to chase the ball.
If their key players are limited or out, depth becomes a concern. Rotational lapses and struggles containing guards like Haliburton have been problematic. The Cavs need more reliable three-point shooting and better transition defense to swing momentum on the road.
Pacers: Strengths and Weaknesses
The Pacers’ biggest strength is their balanced and efficient offense, with six players averaging double digits. Tyrese Haliburton runs the attack, and head coach Rick Carlisle’s system keeps the ball moving and shooters in rhythm. They have embraced the fast pace, often outscoring opponents in transition and with quick passes on the perimeter.
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Their ability to shoot well from both two and three-point range makes Indiana dangerous. In Games 1 and 2, they shot more than 50% from the field and nearly 40% from three. Myles Turner’s ability to stretch the floor as a center opens up space inside for guards and slashing wings.
Defensively, the Pacers rely on team effort rather than a single stopper. Their depth has allowed them to stay aggressive through foul trouble or minor injuries. Players like Bruce Brown and Andrew Nembhard offer gritty defense and hustle plays that energize the team.
Weaknesses include occasional rebounding lapses and inconsistency defending against elite scorers. Larger, physical teams like the Cavs sometimes create second chance opportunities. If the outside shots aren’t falling, Indiana can get bogged down in the halfcourt and lose offensive rhythm.
Indiana’s home record as an underdog (7-3) demonstrates their resilience, but playoff inexperience for some of their young core could be tested as Cleveland adjusts and increases physicality.
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Advanced Stats and Trends to Know
Advanced metrics show why this series is so close despite the 2-0 Pacers lead. Cleveland’s net rating in the playoffs is +3 but against Indiana, it’s dipped due to defensive struggles in crunch time. Indiana has excelled in effective field goal percentage and turnover margin, key stats in two close wins.
The Cavaliers have covered the spread in four of their last six games, which is significant for betters. Their playoff against-the-spread (ATS) record sits at 51-36-1.
- Pacers are 7-3 as home underdogs this season.
- Indiana is 23-10-2 as an underdog in all settings.
- Pacer’s postseason three-point shooting: 39% in 2 games vs CLE
The over/under has gone over in more than half of both teams’ playoff games so far, but defensive adjustments could shift that. Indiana’s ability to keep turnovers low and hit threes is driving their success.
When Indiana shoots at least 50% from the field, their win rate jumps dramatically – a crucial stat as the Cavs have struggled to force tough shots consistently. Cleveland, however, thrives in games slowed to a half-court pace, a key variable to watch in Game 3.
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Sports Betting Model Predictions
The SportsLine Projection Model, which simulates every NBA game 10,000 times, projects a close contest for Game 3. The model leans slightly under the total, predicting a combined 226 points. It also signals that one side of the spread will hit close to 60% of simulations.
Historically, the model has returned well over $10,000 for $100 bettors on top-rated picks. For this matchup, bettors should note:
- Cavaliers are projected as slight favorites by most models
- Simulations suggest low risk on the under
- Playoff performances by Mitchell and Haliburton carry significant weight in the model’s projections
As injuries or late roster moves come in, model projections could shift. Always check for real-time updates and compare projections with kickoff information before finalizing bets.
Expert Analysis and Betting Tips
Expert consensus leans toward a bounce-back effort by Cleveland, though Indiana has displayed better team play so far this series. Many believe that while Cleveland is favored by the oddsmakers, the Pacers’ home momentum and balanced scoring give them a real shot at going up 3-0.
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Bettors should watch the injury report closely. If Garland or Mobley are ruled out, lines may move in Indiana’s favor. Experts recommend looking at the total under 226.5 if you expect a defensive adjustment from the Cavs after giving up two high-scoring losses.
Player props such as Mitchell’s points and Haliburton’s assists have been hot betting avenues in this series, with both stars hitting their overs in the first two games. Indiana’s team threes and Turner’s blocks are also worth tracking for side bets.
- Monitor live lines if in-game betting
- Consider moderate unit sizes due to uncertainty
- Watch for late scratch or foul-trouble news
Fan sentiment favors the home Pacers for the upset, but veteran experience and urgency could spark Cleveland to steal back home court in Game 3. Approach with caution and check real-time reports as the action unfolds.
Projected Starting Lineups
These are the expected starters for both teams, but final lineups could change depending on pregame injury decisions:
| Cavaliers | Pacers |
|---|---|
| Donovan Mitchell | Tyrese Haliburton |
| Darius Garland* | Bennedict Mathurin |
| Max Strus | Bruce Brown |
| Evan Mobley* | Obi Toppin |
| Jarrett Allen | Myles Turner |
* denotes questionable for Game 3 due to injury (Garland, Mobley).
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The Pacers have relied on this unit for much of their postseason run, while the Cavaliers could need more minutes from their bench if injuries linger. Watch for who gets the early defensive assignments, especially against Mitchell and Haliburton.
Coaches could pivot quickly if foul trouble or performance issues crop up, so keep an eye on official team social channels for any late shifts.
Streaming and TV Information
Game 3 is available on national TV via ESPN, with tipoff at 7:30 p.m. ET. Fans can also stream the game live with a trial on FuboTV, as well as other major streaming apps carrying NBA Playoff contests. Local broadcasts will remain available for both the Cleveland and Indiana markets.
In addition to TV streams, fans can follow real-time updates through the NBA’s official app, social media accounts, or popular sports betting apps for live stats and odds throughout the game.
For those listening on the radio, flagship stations in both markets will provide play-by-play and expert analysis throughout Game 3 as the Eastern Conference Semifinals heat up.
