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Mitchell Leads Cavaliers Through Playoff Turnaround
Donovan Mitchell has guided the Cleveland Cavaliers through a season of roster changes and early struggles. The team now trails the New York Knicks 0-2 in the Eastern Conference finals.
May 23, 7:21 AM·1m read1 source
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Atkinson credited Mitchell with steady leadership during a season that included roster upheaval and inconsistent results. Mitchell scored 26 points and recorded eight assists in the decisive Game 7. He had shot 6-for-20 in the prior contest.
The Cavaliers began the 2025-26 season as Eastern Conference favorites but fell to 17-16 by late December. Mitchell increased his usage rate and organized film sessions after losses. Forward Dean Wade said Mitchell told teammates they possessed enough talent to improve.
Guard Sam Merrill cited Mitchell's consistent positivity during the early slump. Cleveland finished the regular season 52-30 and earned the No. 4 seed. Center Jarrett Allen said the team follows Mitchell's decisions on and off the court.
The Knicks defeated the Cavaliers by 22 points in Game 1 and by 16 points in Game 2. Mitchell said the team would adjust and protect home court in Game 3. Mitchell has reached the conference finals for the first time in his nine NBA seasons. The series resumes Saturday in Cleveland.
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