Despite hand injury, Love says he will be ready to play in Game 3

CLEVELAND– Kevin Love said on Wednesday night that he will be ready to go for Game 3 in the Cavaliers’ opening round series against the Indiana Pacers after suffering a left hand injury.

The injury happened late in the fourth quarter of Game 2 on Wednesday night, as he deflected a pass from Victor Oladipo. After the 100-97 win, Love said he initially feared the thumb was broken, but that the X-rays came back negative. Fear about the injury was understandable, however, considering it is the same hand Love broke earlier this year.

ESPN reported after the game that Love tore a ligament in his thumb, but that it shouldn’t affect his status. In fact, both Love and head coach Tyronn Lue said that Love could have returned to the game, but that Lue liked the rhythm that the Cavs had going.

“I saw a replay too, and it didn’t look good,” Love said. “Hurt pretty bad. Initially, I told Ty afterward that I could have gone back in, but I think he liked the flow out there, and guys made big plays down the stretch. It’s not going to feel great tomorrow, but throw some ice on it, tape it up and be ready to go.”

The Cavs and Pacers will play Game 3 in Indiana on Friday at 7 p.m.