What's happened
The Cleveland Cavaliers, trailing 3-1 in their playoff series against the Indiana Pacers, face a crucial Game 5 on Tuesday. Star guard Donovan Mitchell's status is uncertain due to an ankle injury, which could significantly impact the team's chances of survival in the postseason.
What's behind the headline?
Key Factors Impacting Game 5
- Injury Concerns: Donovan Mitchell's ankle injury is a major concern. His absence would leave a significant scoring void, as he has averaged 28.9 points in the playoffs.
- Team Dynamics: The Cavaliers have already dealt with injuries to other key players like Darius Garland and Evan Mobley, affecting their overall performance.
- Betting Odds: The Pacers have shifted from 9.5-point underdogs to 7.5-point underdogs, indicating some confidence in their ability to compete, especially if Mitchell is not at full strength.
- Defensive Struggles: The Cavaliers currently hold the worst defensive rating among playoff teams, which could be exploited by the Pacers if Mitchell is sidelined.
Predictions
- If Mitchell plays, the Cavaliers may have a fighting chance to extend the series. However, if he is unable to contribute, the Pacers could capitalize on Cleveland's weakened lineup, potentially leading to a decisive victory.
What the papers say
According to AP News, Donovan Mitchell's participation in Game 5 remains uncertain, with Coach Kenny Atkinson expressing hope for his return. Meanwhile, the NY Post highlights the betting implications of Mitchell's injury, noting that the Cavaliers are struggling with multiple injuries, which could affect their performance. The Post also emphasizes the Pacers' strong offensive rating, contrasting it with the Cavaliers' defensive woes, suggesting that the Pacers are in a favorable position if Mitchell is not at full capacity. This analysis underscores the critical nature of Mitchell's health for the Cavaliers' playoff hopes.
How we got here
The Cavaliers, who finished the regular season with a 64-18 record, have struggled in the playoffs, particularly against the Pacers. Mitchell's injury, sustained during a recent game, has compounded the team's challenges as they aim to avoid elimination.
Go deeper
- What are the implications if Mitchell doesn't play?
- How have the Pacers performed in the playoffs so far?
- What are the betting odds for Game 5?
More on these topics
-
The Indiana Pacers are an American professional basketball team based in Indianapolis. The Pacers compete in the National Basketball Association as a member of the league's Eastern Conference Central Division.
-
Cleveland is a city in the U.S. state of Ohio and the county seat of Cuyahoga County. Located along the southern shore of Lake Erie, it is situated across the Canada–U.S. maritime border and approximately 60 mi (97 km) west of the Ohio–Pennsylvania st
-
The Cleveland Cavaliers, often referred to as the Cavs, are an American professional basketball team based in Cleveland. The Cavaliers compete in the National Basketball Association as a member of the league's Eastern Conference Central Division.
-
Donovan Mitchell Jr. is an American professional basketball player for the Utah Jazz of the National Basketball Association. He played college basketball for the Louisville Cardinals.
-
Kenneth Neil Atkinson is an American professional basketball coach and former player who serves as assistant coach for the Golden State Warriors of the National Basketball Association.
-
Indiana is a U.S. state in the Midwestern and Great Lakes regions of North America. It is the 38th-largest by area and the 17th-most populous of the 50 United States. Its capital and largest city is Indianapolis. Indiana was admitted to the United States