The Indiana Pacers and the Cleaveland are ready to finish up their home stand tonight. This will be the third time they face off this season since they last met in November. So far, the Pacers stand at 2-0, with the Cavs to have completely revamped. They’re truly in a different league right now, as they are getting more 3-pointers, quickly climbing up to be one of the best in the East Conference. Tonight’s matchup can allow Pacers to win against the Cavs who are currently shorthanded. Of course, if the Pacers need to survive, they need to take advantage of the scenarios.

Cavs star guard, Donovan Mitchell, who recently missed 7 games with a bone bruise on his knee, is out again, this time with a fractured nose. But that’s not it. Alongside Mitchell, Max Strus and Evan Mobley are also going to be out with a right knee strain and left ankle sprain, respectively. And then again, Dean Wade is currently “doubtful”; he might not show up because of right knee soreness.

Mitchell’s return proved to be a brief flicker of hope for the Cavs. He pushed to play against the New Orleans Pelicans, racking up 14 points on some reportedly questionable shooting. Later, he admitted his knee wasn’t quite ready for prime time. This much was clear during the following game against the Knicks, where his scoring (13 points) and overall pace noticeably reduced. After the Knicks’ loss, Mitchell acknowledged that he needed more rest, but the series of bad news continued as he suffered a nasal fracture during that same game. This setback keeps him sidelined for tonight’s match-up against the Pacers.

Can The Cavs Keep Their Heads Above Water Without Donovan Mitchell?

Despite a stellar season with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Donovan Mitchell’s recent injury throws a wrench into his All-NBA and major award hopes. Despite putting up MVP-worthy numbers (27.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, 6.1 assists, per game),  the 27-year-old guard, who earned All-NBA Second Team honors last year, Mitchell sat out Monday’s game against the Suns, marking his 18th absence.

This absence threatens Mitchell’s shot at major awards owing to the recently ratified NBA CBA (Collective Bargaining Agreement). Implemented in July 2023, Article 29, Section 6 of the CBA stipulates that players need to suit up for at least 65 games (with at least 20 minutes played) to qualify for MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, or All-NBA glory. Season-ending injuries get a pass, but Mitchell’s situation is different.

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Mitchell’s averages of 27.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 6.1 assists paint a picture of an MVP-caliber season. The Cavs, currently holding the 3rd seed in the East with a 42-25 record, speak volumes about Donovan’s contributions. Things weren’t looking peachy on Saturday night either. Mitchell exited the Cavs’ game against the Rockets with an injury after putting up 11 points in 23 minutes. The Cavs ultimately fell short 103-117 in that game.

So, the big question remains, with Mitchell out for the upcoming Tyrese Haliburton & Co game, will the Cavs come out victorious? One thing’s for sure, the Cavs need their star player healthy if they want to avoid a first-round playoff exit despite holding their position as the 3rd ranked team in the East. Do you think the Cavs have a shot at the playoff run without their superstar? Share your thoughts below!

Donovan Mitchell Injury Update: Heartbreaking Confession on Knee Discomfort May Jeopardise Cavs Star’s Availability vs Pacers