Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Indiana Pacers – Game 5 Preview (May 13, 2025 – Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse)

Series Overview

The Indiana Pacers have taken a 2-0 lead in the series, capitalizing on the Cavaliers’ injury woes. Key players like Evan Mobley and Darius Garland have been sidelined, impacting Cleveland’s performance. The Pacers’ balanced offense, led by Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam, has been effective in exploiting the Cavaliers’ weakened defense.

Despite the setbacks, the Cavaliers have shown resilience throughout the season. Under Coach Kenny Atkinson’s leadership, the team has developed a dynamic, team-oriented offense. Donovan Mitchell’s scoring prowess remains a critical factor for Cleveland’s success.

Key Matchups

• Donovan Mitchell vs. Tyrese Haliburton: Mitchell’s ability to penetrate and create scoring opportunities will be crucial against Haliburton’s playmaking and court vision.
• Frontcourt Battle: With Mobley out, Jarrett Allen’s role becomes even more significant in countering the Pacers’ interior presence, particularly against Myles Turner.
• Bench Contributions: Cleveland’s depth will be tested, and contributions from role players like Max Strus and Sam Merrill could be pivotal.

Betting Insights

This matchup presents opportunities for expected value betting, especially in player prop markets where individual performances can be anticipated based on matchups and recent trends. Additionally, utilizing reduced juice sportsbooks can offer better odds and lower the cost of betting over time.

Prediction

Given the Cavaliers’ home-court advantage and the urgency to avoid a 0-3 deficit, expect a spirited performance. However, the Pacers’ cohesion and current momentum may give them the edge.

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