Cleveland Cavaliers Injury Update (May 9, 2025): Is Evan Mobley Playing in Game 3 vs the Indiana Pacers?

The Cleveland Cavaliers face a crucial moment in their Eastern Conference semifinal series against the Indiana Pacers, with their playoff hopes hanging in the balance as star forward Evan Mobley battles an ankle injury. As the series shifts to Indianapolis for Game 3, Mobley’s status remains officially questionable, casting uncertainty over the Cavs’ game plan and their prospects for a comeback.Evan Mobley, who suffered a left ankle sprain during the fourth quarter of Game 1, missed Game 2 alongside Darius Garland (toe) and De’Andre Hunter (thumb).All three participated in a team walk-through on Thursday, “touched the ball,” and are listed as questionable for Game 3, according to head coach Kenny Atkinson. While there is optimism within the organization, sources report Mobley was moving cautiously during practice, suggesting he is still managing the effects of his injury. A final decision on his availability will likely be made closer to tip-off.Evan Mobley has been a cornerstone for the Cleveland Cavaliers, earning the franchise’s first-ever Defensive Player of the Year award this season. His two-way presence is vital, anchoring the defense and providing efficient scoring. In Game 1 against the Pacers, Mobley delivered an impressive stat line:- 20 points- 10 rebounds- 2 assists- 2 steals- 9-of-13 shooting (69.2% FG)His ability to protect the rim, switch onto perimeter players, and contribute offensively makes him irreplaceable in Cleveland’s system. Over the postseason, Mobley has accumulated 170 points and 72 rebounds, underscoring his consistency and importance.If Evan Mobley is unable to play in Game 3, the Cleveland Cavaliers face a daunting task. In Game 2, with Mobley, Garland, and Hunter sidelined, Cleveland struggled defensively and on the glass, losing 121-112 as Indiana capitalized on second-chance opportunities and interior scoring. Reserve forward Dean Wade and guard Ty Jerome were pressed into larger roles, but neither can replicate Mobley’s defensive impact or offensive versatility.Without Mobley, the Cavaliers must rely more heavily on Donovan Mitchell, who scored 48 points in Game 2, and hope for increased contributions from Jarrett Allen and the supporting cast. Defensively, Cleveland will need to tighten rotations and gang-rebound to compensate for Mobley’s absence.Also read: Will Darius Garland play tonight against the Indiana Pacers? Latest update on the Cleveland Cavaliers star's injury report for Game 3 (May 9, 2025)Evan Mobley’s status for Game 3 remains uncertain, but his presence-or absence-will be a decisive factor as the Cavaliers attempt to avoid a 0-3 series deficit. If he is unable to suit up, Cleveland’s margin for error shrinks considerably, and their ability to contain Indiana’s offense will be severely tested. The Cavs’ playoff hopes may hinge on Mobley’s ankle and his ability to return to the court at close to full strength.