Donovan Mitchell’s stellar performance, recording 27 points and 13 rebounds, propelled the Cleveland Cavaliers (13-9) to a decisive 111-99 triumph over the Miami Heat (12-10) on Friday night.
Despite early foul trouble for Darius Garland, he managed to contribute 18 points, complementing Mitchell’s dominant display.
Georges Niang added 13 points, and Max Strus, in his first road game against his former team, contributed 11.
Josh Richardson and Kyle Lowry led the scoring for the Heat with 17 points each. Jimmy Butler contributed 16 points, while Caleb Martin and former Cavaliers forward Kevin Love added 15 and 14 points, respectively. Jaime Jaquez Jr. also chipped in with 12 points.
Despite a strong start from Miami, building a 16-point lead early in the game, the Cavaliers showcased resilience with two 15-0 runs during the match.
Bam Adebayo, Haywood Highsmith, and Tyler Herro were notable absentees for the Heat due to various injuries.
Cleveland played without Evan Mobley, who was sidelined with left knee soreness, marking his first absence this season.
