Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell expressed a resilient outlook after his team’s heartbreaking 120-119 loss to the Indiana Pacers in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. Despite his personal standout performance of 48 points, Mitchell’s Cavaliers found themselves on the wrong side of a stunning Pacers comeback.
Following the loss, Mitchell was asked about his emotions in the aftermath of the game, especially considering the Cavaliers’ injuries and the immense pressure they were under. “We got to go get two in Indy, simple as that,” he stated, emphasizing the urgency as the Cavaliers now head to Indiana facing an 0-2 series deficit.
Mitchell, who battled through a calf strain that was highlighted during TNT’s broadcast, admitted the physical toll the game had taken on him. “I’m good. It’s tough, but that’s what the playoffs are, you know?” he explained, noting that the playoffs require players to push through adversity. “Now we got two days to get ready for Friday,” he added, focusing on the quick turnaround for Game 3.
The loss was particularly hard to process given Cleveland’s late-game miscues. With just over a minute left, the Cavaliers held a 119-112 lead, but turnovers and missed opportunities allowed Indiana to close the game on an 8-0 run. Mitchell took responsibility for a crucial rebound he failed to secure in the final moments. “I should have grabbed the ball,” he admitted. “I was right there, so that’s on me.”
The Cavaliers’ late-game execution faltered further when Mitchell was called for a charge in the last minute. He reflected on the call, saying, “I tried to be strong with the ball. I guess I hit him in the head, but I’m not mad at that… it’s on me.” Despite the tough loss, Mitchell maintained a positive attitude, focusing on the need to learn from mistakes and move forward.
On the team’s defensive performance, Mitchell noted that Cleveland showed spurts of solid defense, but lapses ultimately hurt them. “We’ve guarded in spurts, but we gave up too many big runs,” he said. “Our defensive intensity is there, just got to continue to do it as a group.” He remained confident that the team could adjust and bounce back.
Looking ahead to Game 3, Mitchell acknowledged the challenges posed by Indiana’s fast pace but also emphasized the Cavaliers’ ability to respond. “If they play Friday, great. We definitely use them, but if they don’t, we got to be ready,” he said, referencing the injuries to key players like Evan Mobley, Darius Garland, and De’Andre Hunter. Mitchell’s focus is clear: the Cavaliers must regroup and approach the next game with determination.
Game 3 of the series is scheduled for Friday in Indianapolis, where the Cavaliers will look to avoid falling into a 0-3 hole.
