TITLE: Mitchell’s 39-Point Second Half Sparks Cavaliers; Coach Lauds Mobley, Pistons’ Duren Vows Improvement, Bucks Co-Owner Edens Caught in $1 Billion Extortion Plot
SLUG: mitchell-explodes-cavs-mobley-praised-duren-struggles-edens-extortion
CONTENT:
Star guard Donovan Mitchell erupted for 39 points after halftime on Monday night, carrying the Cleveland Cavaliers to a Game 4 victory that evened their first-round series at 2-2.
Mitchell ties playoff record with second-half surge
Mitchell, who shot 1-for-8 for four points in the opening half, poured in 21 points in the third quarter and 18 in the fourth, matching Sleepy Floyd’s single-half playoff record of 39. His outburst powered a 22-0 run to open the second half and flipped a four-point halftime deficit into a comfortable win.
The 27-year-old acknowledged he missed a late free throw that would have broken Floyd’s mark but said the result mattered more. “We won the game and we’re 2-2 going to Detroit,” Mitchell said. “That was what we came home to do and that’s all that matters.”
Atkinson applauds Mobley’s defensive impact
Head coach Kenny Atkinson highlighted Evan Mobley’s work on the other end of the floor. The former Defensive Player of the Year candidate had been criticized after grabbing only one rebound in Game 2, yet Atkinson called Monday “maybe the best I’ve seen him defensively.” The coach emphasized that Mobley’s influence “goes well beyond the box score.”
Pistons’ Duren struggles, promises response
While Cleveland’s frontcourt thrived, Detroit center Jalen Duren managed eight points and two rebounds in Game 4. The restricted free agent is averaging 9.5 points and 7.0 rebounds for the series, with the Pistons being outscored during his minutes. “I’ve just gotta be better, man,” Duren said. “I have no excuses. I’m my biggest critic.”
Bucks co-owner allegedly blackmailed for $1 billion
Federal prosecutors have charged Changli Sophia Luo with blackmail and extortion after she allegedly demanded $1 billion from Milwaukee Bucks co-owner Wes Edens. Court filings state Luo threatened to release explicit photos and videos stemming from a brief affair unless Edens paid. A spokesperson said Edens intends to testify under oath at the upcoming trial.
The Cavaliers and Pistons resume their series in Detroit with Game 5 tied at two games apiece.
Source: HoopsRumors
