As the Cleveland Cavaliers prepare to face the Boston Celtics in a critical Game 5 of the NBA Playoffs, all eyes are on Donovan Mitchell, whose participation remains a question mark due to a calf injury. With the series hanging by a thread, Donovan Mitchell’s potential absence could be a decisive factor in the Cavaliers’ fate.
The Injury Woes of Donovan Mitchell
Late in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semi-finals, Donovan Mitchell sustained a left calf strain that sidelined him for Monday’s Game 4, where the Cavaliers fell 109-102 to the Celtics. This setback has left Cleveland in a precarious position, trailing 3-1 in the series.
The 27-year-old guard has been a standout performer this postseason, averaging 28.6 points per game and notching a remarkable 50-point game against the Orlando Magic in the first round.
Cleveland’s head coach, JB Bickerstaff, expressed the team’s cautious approach to Donovan Mitchell’s recovery, stating they are taking it “day by day.” This uncertainty adds to the tension for the Cavs, who are already dealing with multiple injuries.
Cavaliers’ Injury Report: A Growing Concern
The injury concerns for the Cavaliers extend beyond Donovan Mitchell. Jarrett Allen and Caris LeVert are also listed as questionable for Wednesday’s showdown. Allen has been absent for the past seven games due to a right rib contusion, while LeVert is dealing with a bone bruise in his left knee.
Additionally, Craig Porter is doubtful after missing 11 games with a left ankle sprain, and Ty Jerome is out long-term following ankle surgery.
Game 5: A Do-or-Die Scenario
Scheduled for a 7 PM ET tip-off at TD Garden in Boston, Game 5 is not just another playoff game for the Cavaliers. It’s a must-win to keep their postseason dreams alive. With the Celtics leading the series, a loss for Cleveland would end their run in the playoffs. The pressure is immense, and the team’s resilience and depth will be tested like never before.
Fans can catch the action live on TNT or stream it on fuboTV, which offers a free trial for new users.
Implications of the Game
The stakes are high, not only for the Cavaliers but for the NBA Playoffs landscape. The winner of this series will advance to the Eastern Conference finals, facing either the Indiana Pacers or the New York Knicks, with the Knicks currently leading their series 3-2.
As Game 5 approaches, the Cavaliers hope for the best but must prepare for the worst. The absence of key players like Donovan Mitchell could be the tipping point in a series that has already had its fair share of drama and intensity. Cleveland fans will be holding their breath, hoping their star player can make a timely return to the court.
