INDIANAPOLIS — Garland had been sidelined since Game 2 of the Cavaliers’ opening-round series against the Miami Heat. Mobley and Hunter, meanwhile, both went down with injuries during Game 1 of the current series against the Indiana Pacers and were forced to miss Game 2. Their absences were felt immediately, with the Cavs dropping that contest and facing questions about their depth and resilience.
The Cleveland Cavaliers finally looked more like a complete team in Game 3 of their second-round playoff series, thanks to the return of three key players: Darius Garland (toe), Evan Mobley (ankle), and De’Andre Hunter (hand). Their presence was a much-needed boost, especially after Cleveland had struggled with consistency and rhythm while battling injuries in earlier games.
All signs point to stability for Game 4, however. None of the trio appeared on Cleveland’s official injury report heading into Sunday’s crucial matchup in Indianapolis, signaling that the team could have its full core available as it tries to take a commanding 3–1 lead in the series.
Of the returning players, Mobley arguably had the most impressive showing. In Game 3, he recorded a double-double with 18 points and 13 rebounds and looked every bit like his agile, dominant self on both ends of the floor. The young forward said he was eager to get back, especially after watching the Cavs fall in Game 2.
“I really wanted to be out there for Game 2, but I just couldn’t go,” Mobley said after Friday’s win. “That loss motivated me to get back as quickly as possible. I’m lucky—I tend to heal fast. So once I started feeling better, I knew it was time.”
Garland wasn’t quite at full speed but still played an important role. His return allowed the Cavaliers to space the floor more effectively and took pressure off Donovan Mitchell, who had carried much of the offensive burden in Garland’s absence. Though Garland showed flashes of his typical playmaking ability—particularly in the first half—he seemed to tire as the game progressed, a reminder that he’s still recovering.
“It’s the playoffs. Everyone’s dealing with something,” said veteran big man Tristan Thompson. “I’ve known DG (Garland) for a long time. He’s hungry, and I know how badly he wants this. Everyone’s banged up this time of year. You just manage it—take advantage of off days, recover, and go back out and give what you’ve got.”
Despite being present in Game 3, Garland and most of the Cavaliers’ rotation players, excluding Dean Wade and Isaac Okoro, skipped the team’s voluntary practice session on Saturday. With Game 4 scheduled for 8 p.m. Sunday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, preserving energy and staying healthy is clearly a priority.
Cleveland hopes that its returning stars can continue to shake off the rust and propel the team deeper into the postseason—starting with another strong performance in Game 4.
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