The Indiana Pacers, seeded fourth, will clash with the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers for Game 3 of their series in the 2025 NBA playoffs this Friday evening. After two defeats at home, the Cavaliers are looking to bounce back. The previous game ended in a nail-biting finish, with the Pacers edging out the Cavaliers 120-119 thanks to a last-second three-pointer by Tyrese Haliburton.

Game Details
Date & Time: May 9, 2025, at 7:30 PM ET
Location: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis
Current Odds: Cavs are favored by 4.5 points, having shifted from an opening of 2 points. The total points over/under is set at 229.5.

The SportsLine Projection Model, which simulates each NBA game 10,000 times, has proved profitable, generating over $10,000 for $100 players on high-rated picks for over six seasons. Currently, it shows a 159-116 record on all top-rated NBA picks in the playoffs, indicating a strong performance.

Why the Cavaliers Can Cover

Despite recent losses, Cleveland has managed to go 4-2 against the spread over their last six games. Key player Donovan Mitchell has been a standout, averaging 29.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 4.8 assists during the playoffs. In Game 2, he scored an impressive 48 points, complemented with nine assists and four steals.

Why the Pacers Can Cover

Conversely, the Pacers have performed well at home with a record of 7-3 as underdogs. Six of their players are scoring in double digits this postseason, and their shooting has been exceptional, surpassing 50% in their two victories against the Cavaliers.

How to Make Cavaliers vs. Pacers Picks

The model suggests leaning towards the under for total points, projecting a combined score of 226. Furthermore, it indicates that one side of the spread is likely to succeed well over 50% of the time.

For more insights and to view the model’s specific predictions, check out the SportsLine website.