Is Donovan Mitchell Playing Tonight? Latest Injury Update Ahead of Cavaliers vs 76ers

Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell is officially cleared to play tonight, November 5, 2025, against the Philadelphia 76ers. After managing a left hamstring injury, Mitchell’s return adds a major boost to Cleveland’s offense as they seek to maintain momentum at Rocket Arena.

The 28-year-old guard had been sidelined during the Cavaliers’ October 31 game against the Toronto Raptors. However, his recent 37-point performance against the Atlanta Hawks confirmed he’s back to full strength and ready for a marquee Eastern Conference clash.

Donovan Mitchell Injury Update vs Philadelphia 76ers

Mitchell first suffered a left hamstring strain in late October, forcing him to miss key games in the Cavaliers’ early schedule. Without him, Cleveland struggled to generate consistent scoring. Before the injury, Mitchell averaged nearly 28 points per game — one of the top marks in the league — solidifying his role as the team’s offensive engine.

After returning against Atlanta on November 2, Mitchell quickly erased any doubts about his condition. He dropped 37 points and added five assists, leading Cleveland to a much-needed win. His ability to attack the rim and create space from deep showcased his trademark explosiveness, reassuring both fans and team officials.

Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff confirmed Mitchell’s availability earlier today, stating that he will start against the 76ers. Cleveland enters the matchup with a 4-3 record and an opportunity to climb the Eastern standings. The team may also welcome back Darius Garland, who is expected to make his season debut following toe surgery. Meanwhile, Jarrett Allen remains questionable with a finger injury.

What Mitchell’s Return Means for the Cavaliers Tonight

Mitchell’s return couldn’t come at a better time. The Cavaliers face a Philadelphia squad potentially missing Joel Embiid, who is still managing a left knee issue. Without Embiid’s defensive presence, Cleveland’s guards will have more room to operate in the paint — a dynamic that favors Mitchell’s aggressive style.

With his shot creation and leadership, Mitchell will be the focal point of the offense. His chemistry with Garland, if the latter returns, could reignite one of the NBA’s most balanced backcourts. The Cavaliers will look to capitalize on this advantage to secure their fifth win of the season.

For fans, this game offers an early glimpse of Cleveland’s full potential when healthy. Mitchell’s return signifies both recovery and momentum — key ingredients as the Cavaliers look to assert themselves among the East’s elite teams.

Donovan Mitchell is confirmed to start tonight versus the Philadelphia 76ers. The game tips off at 7:00 PM ET at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, airing on NBC Sports Philadelphia, NBA League Pass, and Bally Sports Ohio.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Donovan Mitchell playing tonight against the Philadelphia 76ers?

Yes. Donovan Mitchell is officially cleared and will start for the Cleveland Cavaliers on November 5, 2025.

Q2: What injury did Donovan Mitchell have?

Mitchell was recovering from a left hamstring strain sustained in late October, which caused him to miss time.

Q3: How did Donovan Mitchell perform in his last game?

He scored 37 points and added five assists against the Atlanta Hawks on November 2, showing no signs of injury limitation.

Q4: Is Darius Garland playing tonight?

Garland may make his season debut tonight after missing games due to toe surgery. His final status remains game-time.

Q5: What time does the Cavaliers vs 76ers game start?

The game begins at 7:00 PM ET at Rocket Arena and will be broadcast regionally and via NBA League Pass.