Tyronn Lue optimistic George Hill will play in Game 7

Although he’s missed the Cavs’ last three games with a back injury, Tyronn Lue is “optimistic” that George Hill will play in Sunday’s Game 7.

“Moved around good today, played 5-on-5 with some of the guys and felt decent so just have to see how his back reacts after that,” Lue said. “Moved around pretty good so we will see.”

Hill practiced for the first time on Saturday since leaving Game 3 due to the injury. Hill originally hurt his back when he was hit by a screen by Pacers forward Trevor Booker in Game 1. Per cleveland.com, Hill warmed up for Game 6 and thought he would be able to play, but the Cavs ultimately ruled him out of what was a series-tying 34-point loss.

The Cavs need Hill back. His length matters on defense and his gives Lue another ball handler he can play heavy minutes so LeBron James doesn’t have to do everything. If he can’t play, Jose Calderon will again start in his place.

In three playoff hames, Hill is averaging 8.7 points and 1.7 assists per game.