The Cleveland Cavaliers are teetering on the brink. Down 0-2 in their Eastern Conference Semifinals matchup against the Indiana Pacers, the team faces a daunting Game 3, further complicated by a cascade of injuries.

The most recent blow? Star guard Donovan Mitchell is reportedly playing through a calf strain. While not officially listed on the injury report, his limping gait at the end of both games and confirmation of discomfort after Game 2's agonizing loss raise serious concerns. This comes on the heels of pre-existing injuries to key players Darius Garland (left big toe sprain), Evan Mobley (undisclosed injury), and De'Andre Hunter (dislocated thumb). The severity of these injuries is unclear, with all three listed as questionable for Game 3, but their absence from shootaround and pre-game practice casts doubt on their availability.

Sources close to the situation suggest the players' absences are due to "pain tolerance" issues. While the Cavaliers are known for their conservative injury management, a reputation appreciated by players, playoff intensity often forces a different approach. The question is, can the Cavs push through the pain, or is this the breaking point?

The impact of these absences is significant. Garland and Mobley, if injured, would severely compromise Cleveland's offensive and defensive capabilities, especially against the Pacers' fast-paced style. Hunter's injured shooting hand further weakens the team's offensive arsenal. The situation echoes last year's playoffs, where Jarrett Allen missed the final eight games due to a severe rib injury, highlighting the team's sometimes overly cautious approach.

Despite the injuries, Mitchell delivered an incredible performance in Game 2, scoring 48 points. However, even his heroics couldn't overcome critical late-game mistakes by the team, ultimately costing them the victory. The team's late-game collapse, coupled with the mounting injury concerns, casts a long shadow over Game 3.

Mitchell's calf strain is particularly worrying, given that a similar injury sidelined him in last year's playoffs. The risk of a more serious injury, such as an Achilles tear, cannot be ignored. While Mitchell's determination is unquestionable, his health must be prioritized. The Cavaliers need a healthy Mitchell to have any chance of a comeback, but his playing through a calf strain poses a significant gamble.

The upcoming Game 3 is a pivotal moment for the Cavaliers. A loss would put them in a deep hole, with the odds of an 0-2 comeback stacked heavily against them. The team's ability to overcome this injury crisis will determine their fate in these playoffs and the future of their season. The question remains: Are the Cavaliers cooked, or can they pull off a miraculous recovery?