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13 hours ago
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The Cleveland Cavaliers are in major trouble.
Down Darius Garland, Evan Mobley and sixth-man De'Andre Hunter on Tuesday against the Pacers, the Cavs looked to be riding Donovan Mitchell and their outside shooters to a victory, but Indiana closed the game on an 8-0 run to steal it and take a 2-0 series lead.
The Cavaliers won't get back in this series without the star trio.
Consider what the Cavs miss out on when they're out.
Garland is a game-changing point guard with in-the-gym range and incredible passing vision.
Mobley was Defensive Player of the Year and is an ever-improving offensive playmaker.
MORE: Donovan Mitchell masterpiece spoiled by heartbreaking ending
Hunter should probably be starting, but regardless, he's one of the league's better two-way wings.
The Cavs almost made due without them on Tuesday night. But in the end, they didn't, and that final outcome is all that really matters.
There's no worrying about the Celtics or Knicks if Cleveland can't even get past the Pacers. And it's clear the battle will be nearly impossible unless the Cavs get their All-Stars back.
MORE: How Pacers completed insane comeback
The Cavs had the best record in the Eastern Conference because of how their whole team gelled together. Garland, Mobley and the trade deadline acquisition Hunter are a huge part of what the Cavaliers do best.
It's gonna take some optimism, but Cleveland still hopes its journey in the postseason is just beginning.
For it to last as long as possible, the Cavs need to get healthy.
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