Game Details:
Matchup: Cavaliers vs Pacers
Date & Time: Sunday, May 11, 2025 | 7:00 PM ET
Venue: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN
Betting Line: Pacers -3.5 | Over/Under: 215.5

Key Storylines

High Stakes in Playoff Push

As the postseason intensifies, the Cavaliers and Pacers square off in what could be a series-defining matchup. Indiana currently leads the series 2-1, and a win tonight at home would give them a commanding edge. Cleveland, on the other hand, is desperate to even things up and keep their playoff hopes alive.

Cavaliers Needing Offense

The Cavaliers’ offensive struggles have been apparent this series, averaging just under 100 points per game. Donovan Mitchell remains the go-to scorer but has been inefficient with opposing defenses swarming him. Cleveland’s key to success lies in improved shooting from role players like Darius Garland and Caris LeVert.

Pacers Lighting It Up

Indiana has leaned into their up-tempo offense all season, and it’s paid dividends in this series. Tyrese Haliburton has been slicing through Cleveland’s defense and dishing out timely assists, while Myles Turner and Pascal Siakam have provided consistent scoring and rebounding in the frontcourt.

Injury Report

Cavaliers:
Out: Jarrett Allen (rib), Dean Wade (knee)
Questionable: Donovan Mitchell (groin)

Pacers:
Out: Bennedict Mathurin (shoulder)
Probable: Aaron Nesmith (ankle)

Betting Trends

Against the Spread (ATS):

Cavaliers: 39-43 ATS this season
Pacers: 46-36 ATS this season

Over/Under Trends:

The total has gone under in 4 of the Cavaliers’ last 5 games
The total has gone over in 3 of the Pacers’ last 5 games
Indiana is 5-1 ATS in their last 6 home games versus Cleveland

Player Prop to Watch

Tyrese Haliburton (Pacers) – Assists Total: 8.5
Haliburton is averaging 10.3 assists in the playoffs and thrives at home. The over looks like solid value here.

Darius Garland (Cavaliers) – Points Total: 17.5
Garland may need to step up big-time, especially if Mitchell is limited. Look for him to be aggressive from the start.

Prediction & Best Bets

Spread: Pacers -3.5 → With Cleveland banged up and Indiana playing confidently at home, expect the Pacers to cover.

Total: Under 215.5 → The Cavaliers’ pace and injuries suggest another low-scoring battle.

Player Prop: Tyrese Haliburton Over 8.5 assists → He’s the floor general and should continue racking up dimes.

The Pacers have been the more consistent and healthy team and should take control of the series in front of the home crowd. Cleveland’s lack of interior presence without Jarrett Allen and potential limitations for Donovan Mitchell spell trouble against Indiana’s fluid offense.

Final Score Prediction: Pacers 109, Cavaliers 101