Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell experienced a rollercoaster 2022-23 on and off the court. The squad lost in the playoffs before reaching their expected glory. Once the final buzzer had rung out, he walked back to his bench, emotions buoyant. He thought back to the path the season took and what it meant to the city of Cleveland.
Mitchell had no problem showing off his incredible ability to score at will during the playoffs. He averaged a sensational 28.3 points-per-game, cementing himself as one of the best NBA postseason performers of all time. His play earned him a ranking of seventh all-time in playoff scoring averages, a reflection of his ability and resiliency.
Even though the team was upset in the first round of the playoffs, Mitchell still called last season “a step in the right direction.” He noted the growth and potential that the Cavaliers have going forward. “We’ve had a lot of positives,” he said. He’s confident the team will be able to continue deepening their work, building on this year’s wins and challenges.
Throughout the series, Mitchell exploded for an average of 34.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. In Game 5, he reminded everyone of his phenomenal scoring prowess with a 35-point performance. Even after looking ahead at an off shooting evening, he continued to attack and ended up 8-25 from the field and 4-13 from deep. He was extraordinary, even while nursing a left ankle sprain. He re-injured the shoulder at halftime of Game 4 but still fought through it and played with grit and ferocity.
Yet his commitment to his teammates shone through. He bravely promised, “I’ll go to bat for every guy in that locker room.” This feeling is an indication of the leadership position he occupies among the team. He was aware of those enormous burdens put on him by the fans and the city. He said he was disappointed by the way the teams have played at home in the playoffs. “We were 0-3 at home, let the city down,” he admitted, conceding that they did not come through as expected.
Kenny Atkinson, the Cavaliers’ head coach, seconded Mitchell’s call to be dissatisfied with the direction their season is heading in. He remarked, “I do feel like we got better,” emphasizing that progress was made despite the playoff exit. Yet he admitted that more work was needed. We’re at the point now where it’s like, okay, now we have to figure out this last piece, how to get over this hump.”
Mitchell’s postseason experience is significant as he has played in playoffs all eight seasons of his career. Despite his individual success and team victories—having finished with the best record in the conference twice—he has yet to advance past the second round. This reality casts a shadow as he dreams about his future and his building blocks for the years to come with the Cavaliers.
Now, sitting wide-eyed and on the bench after the game, Mitchell’s mind was swimming about all that could have gone better. Just as much, he seemed excited for what awaits him – and his team – in the coming months. Disappointed in the city, disappointed in each other. We’re coming back,” he promised, determined.
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