The Cleveland Cavaliers could receive a crucial boost ahead of Game 3 in their playoff series against the Indiana Pacers, as Evan Mobley and De’Andre Hunter are all aiming to suit up, according to The Athletic’s Joe Vardon.
All three players are officially listed as questionable heading into the matchup.
Garland has been sidelined for the past four games due to a sprained toe, while Mobley is dealing with a sprained ankle. Hunter, meanwhile, has been managing a sprained thumb.
Despite the injuries, sources say each player is making a strong push to be available for what is shaping up to be a pivotal contest, with Cleveland trailing 2-0 in the series.
“They participated in the walk-through and we’re hoping for the best,” Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson said. “I think it’s frustrating for all of us, right? It’s no indictment on anybody, it’s just, injuries are a tough thing and you don’t really know unless you experience it yourself.”
According to team sources, swelling in Hunter’s thumb has decreased significantly, offering hope that he might be closer to returning.
Meanwhile, Garland and Mobley are reportedly moving cautiously but appear intent on trying to fight through their respective lower-body issues, critical developments for a Cavaliers squad desperate to shift momentum.
With their postseason hopes hanging in the balance, Cleveland may be counting on the return of its key contributors to spark a turnaround on the road in Indiana.
Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, De'Andre Hunter Will Try To Play In Game 3 https://t.co/9k2wItjDUQ
— RealGM (@RealGM) May 9, 2025
