Game Details:
Matchup: Cavaliers vs. Pacers
Date & Time: Friday, May 9, 2025 | 7:00 PM ET
Venue: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN
Betting Line: Pacers -3.5 | Over/Under: 218.5
Key Storylines
Eastern Conference Semifinals, Game 3
The series between the Cavaliers and Pacers is all tied up at 1-1, with the action now shifting to Indianapolis. After splitting two tightly contested battles in Cleveland, Game 3 becomes a pivotal matchup as momentum swings hang in the balance.
Donovan Mitchell’s Status in Question
The Cavaliers could be without their star guard Donovan Mitchell, who is listed as questionable due to a lingering hamstring issue. Mitchell, who averaged 28.6 points during the regular season, is the key offensive engine for Cleveland. If he’s unable to suit up, Darius Garland and Evan Mobley will have to shoulder more of the scoring burden.
Pacers Riding Haliburton’s Breakout Performance
Tyrese Haliburton erupted for 29 points and 11 assists in Game 2, leading the Pacers to a road victory and stealing home-court advantage. The guard has looked more aggressive this series and will be a focal point for Cleveland’s defense.
Paint Battle Will Be Key
Jarrett Allen versus Myles Turner is a critical frontcourt matchup. Indiana’s ability to contain Cleveland’s inside scoring has been inconsistent, while Allen’s rebounding dominance (12.4 RPG) could swing possession numbers in this game.
Injury Report
Cavaliers:
Questionable: Donovan Mitchell (hamstring), Dean Wade (knee)
Out: Ricky Rubio (personal)
Pacers:
Out: Bennedict Mathurin (shoulder)
Betting Trends
Against the Spread (ATS)
Cavaliers: 42-40 ATS this season
Pacers: 47-35 ATS this season
Over/Under Trends
The total has gone under in 7 of Cleveland’s last 10 games
The total has gone over in 5 of Indiana’s last 6 home games
Pacers are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 home games
Player Prop to Watch
Darius Garland (Cavaliers) – Points Total: 21.5
With Mitchell’s availability in question, Garland could see increased usage and shot opportunities. The over could be worth a look if Mitchell is ruled out.
Tyrese Haliburton (Pacers) – Assists Total: 9.5
Haliburton has topped 10 assists in each of the last two games. Given his playmaking form, the over is a strong play here again.
Prediction & Best Bets
Spread: Pacers -3.5 → Indiana has been one of the most reliable home teams this season and benefits from a healthier roster.
Total: Under 218.5 → Cleveland’s games tend to slow down in Mitchell’s absence, and Game 3 should feature intense half-court defense.
Player Prop: Darius Garland Over 21.5 points → He’ll be more aggressive if Mitchell is sidelined, especially late in possessions.
The Pacers are playing with rhythm and pace at home, while the Cavaliers face lineup uncertainty. If Mitchell is out, the edge strongly tilts toward Indiana. Expect a methodical battle early with second-half scoring bursts.
Final Score Prediction: Pacers 111, Cavaliers 103