Donovan Mitchell poured in 37 points, including five 3-pointers, to lead the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 120-105 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers at Rocket Arena on Sunday.
Mitchell also contributed eight rebounds and six assists, sparking a late third-quarter surge that broke a tight game open.
Evan Mobley recorded a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds, while De’Andre Hunter added 17 points as Cleveland improved to 12-6 on a six-game homestand.
The Cavaliers overcame injuries to several key players, including Jarrett Allen, Lonzo Ball, Sam Merrill, and Craig Porter Jr., fielding one of their 10 different starting lineups this season.
Ivica Zubac led the Clippers with 33 points and 18 rebounds, falling just short of his career high, while Kawhi Leonard returned to the lineup with 20 points after missing 10 games.
James Harden struggled from deep, missing all eight 3-point attempts and finishing with 19 points, after a franchise-record 55-point performance at Charlotte on Saturday.
Los Angeles briefly cut a 13-point deficit to one in the third quarter, but Mitchell responded with consecutive 3-point plays, a three-pointer, and two assists in a 15-3 Cavs run to push the lead to 92-79.
Cleveland extended its advantage early in the fourth quarter with Mitchell hitting another 3-pointer and setting up two more baskets, opening an 18-point margin.
Chris Paul, who announced his retirement on Saturday, logged 17 minutes for the Clippers, recording five assists and receiving a warm ovation from the Cleveland crowd.
Cleveland shot 52% from the field and 38% from three-point range, while the Clippers finished 46% overall and 31% from beyond the arc.
The Cavaliers travel to Toronto on Monday, while Los Angeles hosts the Lakers on Tuesday for their next game.
