Donovan Mitchell to Play in Crucial Game 5 Despite Ankle Injury
Cleveland, Ohio – In a significant development, Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell is set to take to the court for Tuesday’s Game 5 against the Indiana Pacers, despite re-aggravating a sprained left ankle on Sunday. The Cavaliers’ must-win game will determine whether they can stay alive in their second-round series against the Pacers, who currently lead 3-1.
According to reports from the NBA, Mitchell participated in Tuesday morning’s shootaround and took part in his usual pregame shooting routine less than an hour before tipoff. Coach Kenny Atkinson confirmed Mitchell’s participation in the shootaround, fueling hopes that the star guard would be able to play.
"We know the situation we’re in. I can’t give you a definitive but my hope is that he plays," Atkinson said, as quoted by the NBA. Mitchell had taken to social media earlier in the day, posting on X with the Cavaliers’ hashtag theme of #LetEmKnow, providing an early indication of his intention to play.
The All-Star guard had suffered the ankle injury on April 6 during a game against the Sacramento Kings, stepping on the foot of Sacramento’s Keon Ellis and rolling his left ankle. He subsequently missed the last four games of the regular season due to the injury. On Sunday, Mitchell underwent an MRI, which confirmed the sprained ankle. Despite the setback, he is determined to play in Tuesday’s game.
Mitchell has been in impressive form during the playoffs, averaging 28.9 points per game, including five games with at least 30 points. However, the Cavaliers have been plagued by injuries throughout the postseason, with Darius Garland, De’Andre Hunter, and Evan Mobley all missing games due to various injuries. Mitchell himself had been dealing with a calf strain before re-aggravating his left ankle injury.
As reported by the NBA, Mitchell expressed his frustration with the injuries, stating, "I’m banged up, we all are. It’s tough, but that’s what the playoffs are." The Cavaliers will need Mitchell to be at his best if they are to mount a comeback against the Pacers, who can clinch the series with a win in Tuesday’s game.
The Pacers have already won two games in Cleveland, and Mitchell’s participation in Game 5 will be crucial in determining the outcome of the series. As the NBA reports, Mitchell’s presence on the court will be a significant boost to the Cavaliers’ chances of staying alive in the playoffs.
In related news, the Cavaliers’ injury woes have continued to mount, with several key players missing games due to injury. The team’s ability to cope with these setbacks will be crucial in determining their chances of advancing to the Eastern Conference finals.
The Indiana Pacers, on the other hand, are looking to close out the series and advance to the Eastern Conference finals for the second straight year. A win in Game 5 would seal the deal for the Pacers, who have been impressive throughout the playoffs.
As the game approaches, all eyes will be on Mitchell’s ankle and his ability to perform on the court. The NBA will be providing live updates and coverage of the game, so be sure to stay tuned for the latest developments.
In conclusion, Donovan Mitchell’s decision to play in Game 5 despite his ankle injury is a significant development in the Cavaliers’ series against the Pacers. The NBA has been providing comprehensive coverage of the series, and their reports have been instrumental in keeping fans up-to-date with the latest developments. As the game approaches, it remains to be seen how Mitchell’s ankle will hold up, but one thing is certain – it will be a game to watch.
