Is Evan Mobley playing tonight? Cavs host Pacers in Game 2 aiming to even the series

The Cleveland Cavaliers suffered a surprising 121-112 loss to the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 at Rocket Arena. As they look to even the series on their home court, much of the focus is on whether Evan Mobley will suit up for this crucial matchup.

Mobley, one of Cleveland’s cornerstone players and the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, played 36 minutes in the series opener. He posted an impressive stat line of 20 points on 9-of-13 shooting, 10 rebounds, two assists, and two steals, as he also sustained a sprained left ankle.

Despite being listed as questionable for tonight’s game, Evan Mobley has been ruled out and will not play against the Pacers, along with Darius Garland and De’Andre Hunter.

According to reports from the Akron Beacon Journal, Mobley did not participate in the portion of practice open to the media on May 6. Head coach Kenny Atkinson confirmed during his pregame press conference that Mobley, along with Darius Garland and De’Andre Hunter, remains questionable.

Nikola Jovic #5 of the Miami Heat dribbles the ball as Evan Mobley #4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers defends during the first round of the NBA Playoffs. (Megan Briggs/Getty Images)

What the Cavaliers lose without Mobley

Mobley has been instrumental for Cleveland on both ends of the floor this season. In the playoffs, he is averaging 14.8 points and 7.2 rebounds per game, showcasing his dominance in the paint.

see also

Cavaliers head coach praises Tyrese Haliburton’s Pacers after Game 1 performance

If Mobley is unable to play, Jarrett Allen’s role becomes even more critical. The Cavaliers would lean heavily on Allen to anchor their defense and provide a strong presence in the post on offense.

Cavaliers’ injury report

Mobley isn’t the only player Cleveland is monitoring ahead of Game 2 against the Pacers. Darius Garland and De’Andre Hunter are also listed as questionable. Garland has missed the last three games due to a sprained left big toe, an injury sustained late in the regular season and aggravated in Game 2 of Cleveland’s first-round sweep against the Miami Heat.

Hunter, on the other hand, dislocated his right thumb after a hard fall in Game 1. Despite the injury, Hunter logged 30 minutes off the bench in the series opener, contributing 11 points, four rebounds, and one assist.