Cavs Turn to Donovan Mitchell as First-Round Series Returns to Cleveland Down 0–2
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The Cleveland Cavaliers will try to erase a 2–0 deficit tonight when they host Game 3 of their opening-round series, and head coach Kenny Atkinson says the plan once again centers on Donovan Mitchell.
“If we hit a few shots, we’ll be fine,” the All-Star guard told reporters after Thursday’s 16-point loss. Mitchell’s usage rate already spiked in January, when he steadied the club after a 17-16 start, and teammates credit his voice for keeping the locker room together.
“He’s our vocal leader,” forward Dean Wade said. “We go as he goes.”
Health Update
Atkinson dismissed speculation that Mitchell is hurt, calling any issues “normal bumps and bruises.” The coach said Mitchell assured him, “I’m fine, Coach,” and will play heavy minutes.
Offensive Tweaks
The Cavaliers’ immediate concern is scoring support. Evan Mobley did not attempt a shot after halftime in Game 2, and center Jarrett Allen, who finished with 13 points, believes cleaner pick-and-roll execution is essential. “Sometimes we just need to set the screen and run the offense ourselves,” Allen noted.
Cleveland shot only 38.8 percent from the field and 25.7 percent beyond the arc on Thursday, numbers Atkinson felt did not match the quality of looks created. “We took care of the ball and crashed the glass; we just didn’t make shots,” he said.
No Lineup Shuffle
Despite the struggles, Atkinson will stay with the same starting five, opting not to swap out Wade before tonight’s tip-off.
The Cavaliers aim to replicate the January turnaround Mitchell led—this time with their season on the line.
Source: Hoops Rumors
