Game Overview

The third game of the Cleveland Cavaliers vs Golden State Warriors series was a highly anticipated matchup, with both teams eager to gain momentum in the series. The game was set to take place at the iconic Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio, a venue that has seen its fair share of memorable moments in the NBA.

Public Money and Betting Odds

As the game approached, public money began to pour in on both teams. According to various sportsbooks, the Golden State Warriors were the favorites, with odds of -3.5 points. The Cavaliers, however, were not to be underestimated, with odds of +3.5 points. The total over/under for the game was set at 224.5 points, reflecting the high-scoring nature of both teams.

Team	Odds	Total Points
Golden State Warriors	-3.5	224.5
Cleveland Cavaliers	+3.5	224.5

Key Players and Matchups

The Cavaliers entered the game with a strong lineup, led by All-Star Kevin Love and the dynamic Kyrie Irving. Golden State, on the other hand, had Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant in their arsenal, two players who have the ability to change the course of a game with their shooting prowess.

The Cavaliers’ defense was a key factor in the game, as they aimed to contain Curry and Durant. Love, in particular, was tasked with guarding Curry, a matchup that could have significant implications for the game’s outcome. Meanwhile, the Warriors’ defense would need to keep an eye on Irving, who has the ability to create his own shot and disrupt the Cavaliers’ offense.

Game Highlights

The game opened with a back-and-forth battle, with both teams trading leads throughout the first quarter. The Cavaliers, however, managed to take a slight lead into halftime, thanks to a strong performance from Irving and Love.

In the second half, the Warriors made a strong push, with Curry and Durant leading the charge. They managed to tie the game and eventually take the lead, thanks to a series of clutch shots and defensive stops. The Cavaliers fought back, but the Warriors held on for a narrow victory, securing a 119-113 win.

Player Performances

Stephen Curry was the standout player for the Warriors, scoring 36 points on 12-of-22 shooting. Kevin Durant added 28 points and 10 rebounds, while Draymond Green contributed with 12 points and 10 assists. On the Cavaliers’ side, Kevin Love led the team with 27 points and 14 rebounds, while Irving chipped in with 24 points and eight assists.

Public Money Impact

The public money in this game was heavily on the Warriors, as expected. According to sportsbook data, the Warriors received 75% of the bets, with the Cavaliers attracting the remaining 25%. This indicates that bettors were confident in Golden State’s ability to secure a victory, and they were rewarded with a narrow win.

Series Implications

The win for the Warriors put them up 2-1 in the series, giving them a chance to take a commanding lead. The Cavaliers, however, are not out of the series just yet. They will look to even the series in Game 4, which will be a crucial game for both teams.

The public money in the series has been closely watched, with the Warriors remaining the favorites. However, the Cavaliers have shown that they are capable of pulling off an upset, and they will be looking to capitalize on that momentum in the upcoming games.