Pacers vs. Cavaliers: Game 5 Preview, Predictions, How to Watch

The Cleveland Cavaliers face elimination tonight as they host the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series at Rocket Arena. The Pacers lead the series 3–1 and are looking to close it out on the road.

Needless to say, Cleveland’s hopes will hinge on the status of Donovan Mitchell, who is listed as a game-time decision after injuring his ankle in Game 4. In an encouraging sign for the Cavaliers, Mitchell is taking part in pre-game warmups.

Mitchell has been Cleveland’s leading scorer in the postseason, averaging 31.3 points per game — including back-to-back 40-point games.

If he’s unavailable, Darius Garland — also dealing with a toe injury — will need to shoulder the offensive load. The Cavaliers will also look to Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen to dominate the paint and slow Miles Turner and Indiana’s other interior scorers.

Indiana put its offensive firepower on display in Game 4, showcasing its many scoring options. Seven Pacers players scored in double figures, while their defense limited Cleveland to just 42% shooting from the field.

The Cavaliers can’t count on a home-field advantage. The Pacers have already won two of the first three games in Cleveland and have shown poise on the road throughout the postseason. Tyrese Haliburton hasn’t needed to score heavily, but his playmaking has remained steady, averaging 9.2 assists per game in the series.

For Cleveland, this is a must-win to avoid elimination and force a Game 6 back in Indiana. For Indiana, a win would punch their ticket to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in a decade.

If Mitchell plays, Cleveland has the edge. If he’s out, so too are the Cavaliers.

Series Prediction: Indiana in five, if Mitchell is out tonight. Pacers in six, if Mitchell plays.

How to Watch Indiana Pacers vs. Cleveland Cavaliers

Tonight’s Pacers vs. Cavaliers game tips off just after 7:00 PM Eastern. The game airs live on TNT and streams on the TNT website and app, as well as FuboTV.