Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell has assured fans he will play in Game 3 against the
Indiana Pacers after suffering a painful fall in Game 2. The Cavaliers, now trailing 2-0 in the Eastern Conference semifinals, will need Mitchell’s leadership as they attempt to turn the series around on the road.
Is Donovan Mitchell injured after scary fall during Game 2?
During the fourth quarter of Tuesday’s loss,
Donovan Mitchell hit the floor hard after an awkward landing that left him clutching his neck. Despite the visible discomfort, he remained in the game and later confirmed to Cleveland.com’s Chris Fedor that he would be ready for Friday’s matchup.
His resilience comes at a critical time for the
Cleveland Cavaliers, who are already dealing with multiple injuries. Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De’Andre Hunter were all sidelined for Game 2, forcing Mitchell to carry a heavy offensive load.
Donovan Mitchell’s 48-point effort falls short in heartbreaking loss
Mitchell delivered one of his best playoff performances, scoring 48 points in a near-perfect effort that seemed destined to secure a win. However, the Pacers stunned Cleveland with an 8-0 run in the final minutes, capped by Tyrese Haliburton’s clutch stepback three-pointer.
The loss puts the Cleveland Cavaliers in a difficult position as the series shifts to Indiana. Without key contributors, the team’s margin for error is slim, and Mitchell’s ability to maintain his high level of play will be crucial.
Cleveland Cavaliers face must-win scenario in Indiana
With the Pacers holding home-court advantage, the pressure is on Cleveland to respond in Game 3. Mitchell’s presence provides a glimmer of hope, but the Cavaliers will need more than just his scoring to overcome Indiana’s momentum.
The status of Garland, Mobley, and Hunter remains uncertain, leaving Cleveland’s depth in question. If the Cleveland Cavaliers can’t find reinforcements soon, their playoff journey could end sooner than expected.
For now, Donovan Mitchell’s determination gives the team a fighting chance. His ability to play through pain and deliver elite performances will be the Cavaliers’ best hope as they try to claw their way back into the series.
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Mitchell’s heroics kept Cleveland alive, but with key players still sidelined, the odds are stacked against them. Can the Cavs pull off a comeback, or will the Pacers take full control of the series? Drop your predictions in the comments below—we want to hear what you think!