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17 hours ago
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The second-round series between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Indiana Pacers has been torturous for Cavs fans, featuring a relentless emotional rollercoaster that has given hope, only to rip it away again and again.
In games 1 and 2, Donovan Mitchell scored 33 and 48 points, respectively—heroic efforts that ultimately ended in defeat. The Cavs then headed to Indiana for Game 3 with little hope of turning the series around due to the injuries of Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De’Andre Hunter.
Game 3 brought fans a glimmer of hope, as the unexpected return of the trio led to a thunderous win on the Pacers’ home court. What seemed like a lost series turned into a chance for Cleveland to get back into it.
Game 4, however, slammed that window shut. Cleveland trailed by 41 points at halftime, and an ankle injury kept Mitchell off the floor for the second half. This nagging injury, compounded by an insurmountable 3-1 deficit, has the chance to keep Mitchell sidelined for the remainder of the series.
Jan 18, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) talks with head coach Kenny Atkinson during the second quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
Cleveland.com’s Chris Fedor reported that Mitchell was ruled doubtful to return after the team chose to keep him on the bench for the second half.
Game 4 marks one of the most devastating losses that Cleveland fans have endured in recent memory. Game 3 offered fans hope. However, the brutal 20-point blowout in Game 4, along with Mitchell’s injury, may seal one of the most disappointing conclusions to a season in recent NBA history, especially considering Cleveland’s dominant regular season and their championship aspirations.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reported on Mitchell’s injury Thursday morning, explaining that he played Games 1 and 2 on an injured leg. Game 4 appeared to be the breaking point for Mitchell, who was seen laboring through his halftime shooting routine before heading back into the locker room.
Cleveland has yet to announce Mitchell’s status for Game 5. But with the Cavs down 3-1 and Mitchell clearly in pain, fans shouldn’t expect a miracle on Tuesday night.
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