The Milwaukee Bucks and Indiana Pacers are facing off in a pivotal Game 3 of their Eastern Conference playoff series. The best-of-seven series is currently tied 1-1, with the Bucks winning Game 1 and the Pacers winning Game 2. Game 3 will be played at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on Friday, April 26, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. ET. Fans can watch the game live on ESPN, TNT, or NBA TV, or stream it online with Sling TV, FuboTV, or Hulu + Live TV.
The Philadelphia 76ers will look to rebound from a disappointing loss when they host the New York Knicks in Game 3 of their playoff series. The Sixers are expected to come out determined after dropping Game 2 on the road. Despite some frustration with the officiating, the Sixers recognize their own shortcomings, particularly in rebounding. However, they have been effective in their defensive strategy against Knicks point guard Jalen Brunson. With the home crowd behind them, the Sixers will need improved performances from key players like Tobias Harris and Georges Niang to complement the leadership of Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid. Nicolas Batum is also expected to bounce back after a quiet offensive performance in Game 2. While the Knicks have had some success in the series, the Sixers are poised to secure a significant victory and turn the tide in their favor.
As the Cleveland Cavaliers and Orlando Magic prepare for Game 3 of their first-round playoff series, coaches Jamahl Mosley and J.B. Bickerstaff shared their insights and expectations. Mosley acknowledged the importance of protecting home court while Bickerstaff stressed the need for defensive improvements and reduced turnovers. Both coaches expressed confidence in their players’ shooting but emphasized the need for execution. Key players and statistical highlights were also discussed, including Darius Garland’s strong 3-point shooting, Evan Mobley’s defensive prowess, and the need for the Cavs to control the rebounding battle.
The Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs engaged in a thrilling Game 3, with Brad Marchand and Tyler Bertuzzi fueling the on-ice animosity. Marchand’s alleged trip on Bertuzzi ignited controversy, leading to Toronto coach Sheldon Keefe’s veiled criticism. However, Bertuzzi downplayed the incident, acknowledging Marchand’s reputation as an agitator. The Bruins ultimately prevailed 4-2, taking a 2-1 series lead. Despite the tension between the two teams, Marchand and Bertuzzi reportedly have a positive relationship off the ice.
The Boston Celtics and Miami Heat will square off in a crucial Game 3 of their opening-round NBA Playoff series. This highly anticipated matchup promises an intense battle between two Eastern Conference powerhouses.
The Oklahoma City Thunder and the New Orleans Pelicans face off in Game 3 of the opening round of the NBA Playoffs.
Brad Marchand scored the go-ahead goal with 8:07 remaining in the third period as the visiting Boston Bruins defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs 4-2 in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference first-round series on Wednesday. The Bruins now lead the best-of-seven series 2-1. Marchand sealed the win with an empty-net goal with 36 seconds left, giving him 55 career playoff goals and tying him with Hall of Famer Cam Neely for the most in franchise history. Toronto’s Matthew Knies and Tyler Bertuzzi also scored.
The Los Angeles Lakers will face the reigning champion Denver Nuggets in Game 3 of their Western Conference first-round playoff series on Thursday, seeking to level the series after losing the first two games in Denver. The Nuggets showcased their championship experience in Game 2, overcoming a 20-point deficit to secure a 101-99 victory, with Jamal Murray’s buzzer-beating jumper sealing the win. Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with a triple-double, while Murray and Michael Porter Jr. contributed significant scoring. Despite LeBron James’ 26 points and 12 assists, the Lakers struggled in the fourth quarter, allowing the Nuggets to pull away for the win. Los Angeles will aim to protect their home court advantage in Game 3 and regain momentum in the series.
The New York Islanders face an uphill battle in their first-round playoff series against the Carolina Hurricanes after dropping the first two games. The Islanders are particularly frustrated by their Game 2 loss, where they squandered a three-goal lead in the final 2:15 of regulation, losing 5-3. Head coach Patrick Roy believes the Game 1 loss, where the Islanders outshot the Hurricanes but lost 3-1, was more disheartening. Ilya Sorokin will start in net for the Islanders in Game 3, while the Hurricanes will be without defenseman Brett Pesce, who is out with a lower-body injury. The Islanders aim to capitalize on home-ice advantage and force a split in the series.
The Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs will face off in Game 3 of their best-of-seven first-round playoff series on Wednesday night at Scotiabank Arena. Jeremy Swayman will start in goal for the Bruins while William Nylander remains out for the Maple Leafs. Swayman has a 3-0 record against Toronto in the regular season while Nylander has yet to play in the series. Ilya Samsonov will start in goal for the Maple Leafs.
