Context:

The Cleveland Cavaliers face a critical juncture in their NBA playoff series against the Indiana Pacers, having lost key players Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De'Andre Hunter to injuries. Despite Donovan Mitchell's efforts, the Cavs fell short in a game that saw the Pacers close with an 8-0 run to secure a 2-0 series lead. The absence of Garland's exceptional point guard skills and Mobley's defensive prowess has severely impacted the team’s performance. Hunter, who is a strong two-way wing player, also plays a crucial role in the team's success, highlighting the necessity of their return. The Cavs had achieved the best record in the Eastern Conference due to the synergy of these players, making their quick recovery vital for any hope of advancing in the postseason.

Dive Deeper:

• The Cleveland Cavaliers are struggling in their playoff series against the Indiana Pacers due to injuries to key players Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De'Andre Hunter, who are essential for their success.

• In a critical game, the Cavs were leading but ultimately lost after the Pacers went on an 8-0 run, highlighting the importance of their star players' absence in closing out tough games.

• Darius Garland is known for his exceptional point guard skills, including long-range shooting and excellent passing, while Evan Mobley contributes significantly as a Defensive Player of the Year with improving offensive abilities.

• De'Andre Hunter, although typically not a starter, is one of the league's better two-way wing players, adding depth and versatility to the Cavaliers' lineup.

• The Cavaliers' success in the regular season was largely due to the cohesive performance of their entire team, with Garland, Mobley, and Hunter playing pivotal roles in achieving the best record in the Eastern Conference.

• The team remains optimistic about their postseason journey, but for them to have any chance of progressing, it is crucial that Garland, Mobley, and Hunter return to health as soon as possible.

• The absence of these players not only affects the current series but also poses a challenge for future matchups against stronger teams like the Boston Celtics or New York Knicks, making their recovery a priority.

• 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.

• MORE: How long is Evan Mobley out?