Cleveland (1-2) at Indiana (2-1)
- When: May 11 2025, 8:00 PM
- Where: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- TV: TNT
Cavaliers vs. Pacers – Game 4 Preview, Prediction, and Player Props
Spread: Cavaliers -5.5 | Total: 231.0
Indiana Pacers Overview
The Indiana Pacers are back at home for Game 4 against the Cleveland Cavaliers, holding a 2-1 series lead despite a rough outing in Game 3. The story of Friday night’s loss was the underwhelming performance of Tyrese Haliburton. The Pacers’ All-Star guard managed only four points on a dismal 2-of-8 shooting performance as Indiana fell 126-104. His struggles extended off the court as well, as Haliburton was notably absent from the post-game media session, sparking speculation about his mindset.
On Saturday, Haliburton addressed the media, downplaying the situation and promising to bounce back. “The sun came up this morning,” Haliburton remarked. “It’s all part of the process. More film to study, more things to learn.” The Pacers need that learning curve to be quick, as Haliburton was instrumental in their earlier victories. He hit a clutch layup to close out the Bucks in the first round and scored 22 points with 13 assists in Indiana’s Game 1 win over Cleveland, including a game-winning three-pointer with just over a second left.
Indiana will be counting on Haliburton to rediscover his form if they want to stave off Cleveland’s surge and protect home court. The Pacers have been solid at home, and a bounce-back performance from their star guard could make all the difference.
Cleveland Cavaliers Overview
The Cleveland Cavaliers stormed back in Game 3 behind a “masterful” performance from Donovan Mitchell, as described by head coach Kenny Atkinson. Mitchell torched the Pacers’ defense for 43 points on 14-of-29 shooting, adding nine rebounds and five three-pointers. His aggressive play helped the Cavs avoid another meltdown like they experienced in Game 2. “We let one slip away at home in a similar fashion. For me, I couldn’t let it happen again,” Mitchell said after the game.
The Cavaliers also benefitted from the return of key contributors. Max Strus and Jarrett Allen combined for 39 points and 19 rebounds, while Defensive Player of the Year Evan Mobley returned from a sprained ankle to post 18 points and 13 rebounds. Even Darius Garland, fighting through a toe injury, chipped in 10 points despite foul trouble. Garland’s grit was evident as he battled through pain, stating, “Everybody has their nicks and bruises around this time. I’m just trying to help the team win.”
The Cavaliers are 3-0 on the road in the playoffs, winning those matchups by an average of 38 points. That dominance away from home makes them a real threat to even up the series.
Player Prop Picks:
Donovan Mitchell – Over 30.5 Points – Mitchell is locked in and coming off a massive 43-point game. Expect him to carry the offensive load again.
Tyrese Haliburton – Over 8.5 Assists – Despite his shooting woes, Haliburton remains a strong facilitator. Look for him to dish out plenty of assists as he tries to bounce back.
Expert Prediction and Final Score:
Expect Cleveland to come out strong and continue their road dominance. Indiana has looked shaky, especially when Haliburton is off his game, and Cleveland seems to have found its groove with Mitchell leading the way.
Spread: Cleveland to cover the -5.5
Total: Over 231.0
Score Prediction: Cavaliers 122, Pacers 113
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
