The Cleveland Cavaliers have been injury-ravaged throughout the season. However, none of them have been as detrimental as their All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell’s injury. Just two days after returning from a seven-day absence due to a left knee bone bruise and subsequent platelet-rich plasma injection, Mitchell sustained yet another injury. During the team’s loss to the Houston Rockets, an accidental blow to the nose from teammate Tristan Thompson sent Mitchell to the bench with a bloody nose. While it was initially assumed to be a one-game recovery period, the recent update does not bode well for the Cavs.

According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, Mitchell underwent a medical procedure to realign the nasal fracture and will be sidelined for approximately one week, which is when he’ll be re-evaluated.

Going by this timeline, Mitchell will miss at least four more games over the next week, with the earliest possible return date being next Wednesday against the Charlotte Hornets. With the playoffs just over a month away, an injury to a star player is far from ideal for any team. However, for the Cavaliers, it could be a blessing in disguise.

Perhaps some time off is exactly what Donovan Mitchell needed

In his first two games back after the left knee injury, Spida did not look like himself, scoring just 27 total points on 9-of-29 shooting (31.0%) from the field. Following the game, he told reporters, “Just gotta take some time to rest and get it right. I thought I was ready. I’m not. It sucks. I want to be out there. But it’s clear as day. Even to myself. I can’t fool myself. Just get it right and be ready when that time comes.” Considering the third-seeded Cavs are on pace to clinch a playoff berth, this time off gives Mitchell a chance to rest and recover before the playoffs.

While Mitchell’s impact on the game is undeniable, the team has proven they can hold their own, boasting a 10-9 record in his absence this season. More proof of this came during their recent victory against the Indiana Pacers. Despite missing three starters—Donovan Mitchell, Max Strus, and Evan Mobley—and Dean Wade, they secured a 108-103 victory over the Indiana Pacers.

Their next few opponents over the next week include the Miami Heat, the Minnesota Timberwolves, and the Charlotte Hornets. Can Cleveland keep their head above water in Mitchell’s absence? Let us know in the comments!

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