Cavaliers Count on Donovan Mitchell to Bounce Back Against Struggling Pacers

The Cleveland Cavaliers face the Indiana Pacers on Monday night. This is the second game of a back-to-back set for the Cavs. The game tips off in Indianapolis.

Cleveland is coming off a loss to the Boston Celtics on Sunday. Star guard Donovan Mitchell is expected to play despite the quick turnaround. His presence is critical for a team trying to regain its footing.

Mitchell’s Availability Key as Cavs Seek Road Win

The Cavaliers are listed as 6.5-point favorites for Monday’s contest. This line suggests oddsmakers believe Mitchell will suit up. According to reporting from ESPN, Mitchell has played in most back-to-back situations this season.

He missed one earlier this year but played both ends in November. With center Jarrett Allen injured, Mitchell’s scoring is even more vital. The team’s official injury report will confirm his status closer to game time.

Mitchell is having a stellar individual season. He averages nearly 30 points, 5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game. His shooting efficiency remains high from both the field and three-point range.

Cleveland’s Slow Start Highlights Broader Concerns

The Cavaliers’ performance this season has been inconsistent. They currently hold a 12-9 record. That is a notable drop from their dominant 64-win campaign last year.

Advanced metrics tell a similar story. The team ranks in the middle of the league offensively. Their net rating is also just outside the top ten.

A win against the lowly Pacers is crucial for momentum. Indiana has only four wins this season. A loss here would raise serious questions about Cleveland’s contender status.

Monday’s game is a clear test for the Cavaliers. Overcoming a back-to-back requires health and resilience. A strong performance from Donovan Mitchell could steady the ship for Cleveland.

Info at your fingertips

Is Donovan Mitchell playing tonight against the Pacers?

All signs point to yes. Mitchell has played in most back-to-backs this season. The betting line also favors Cleveland heavily, indicating he is expected to play.

Why are the Cavaliers struggling this season?

The team’s offensive efficiency has dipped significantly. They also are not dominating defensively as they did last year. Injuries and integration of new players have contributed to the slower start.

Who is out for the Cavaliers?

Starting center Jarrett Allen is out with a finger injury. He is expected to miss at least another week. His absence weakens their interior defense and rebounding.

What is the Cavaliers’ record when Mitchell plays?

Cleveland is 11-8 in games Donovan Mitchell has played this season. They are 1-1 in the games he has missed. His impact on their win-loss record is substantial.

How have the Cavs performed on back-to-backs?

They have handled them reasonably well. Mitchell played both ends of their last back-to-back set in late November. The team manages his workload but relies on him in important games.