The final stretch of the season has been rough for the Cleveland Cavaliers, who have now dropped four consecutive games after previously asserting dominance in the NBA. Amid their skid, star guard Donovan Mitchell isn’t shying away from accountability.
“I’m gonna put this on me. When your leader ain’t doing s—, this is what happens,“ Mitchell said candidly. “Yeah, we have to guard better, rebound, and all that, but if I’m not being who I need to be, then we’re not gonna get to where we want to go. I will be better.”
While many players might be content with a 56-win season and the top seed in the East, Mitchell is holding himself accountable and is determined to turn things around.
“It’s just one of those moments that builds character,“ he added. “As much as it sucks, I’d rather it happen now. But I work too damn hard to just give in to this. We gotta keep pushing and keep plugging. I’ll be better—I have no doubt. But until I am, here we are.”
Cavs’ recent skid
The Cavaliers have been one of the league’s most potent offenses all season, but Mitchell’s struggles have hampered their scoring output. With losses to the Magic, Clippers, Kings, and Suns in their last four games, Cleveland looks like a different team compared to the dominant squad that ripped off 15 straight wins earlier in the season.
However, from another perspective, this slump could be a blessing in disguise. The Cavaliers have time to correct their mistakes and regain momentum before the playoffs—unlike last year when they suffered an early postseason exit at the hands of the New York Knicks. A late-season reality check could prepare them to make a stronger statement when it matters most.
Mitchell’s recent performance
Despite denying any lingering issues from his recent groin injury, Mitchell hasn’t looked like himself over the last five NBA games. Since March 9 against the Bucks, he’s averaging 17.9 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game while shooting just 29.2% from the field—well below his usual standards.
If the Cavaliers hope to get back on track before the playoffs, Mitchell will need to find his rhythm soon. And based on his own words, he’s more than ready to take on that challenge.