Context:

The Cleveland Cavaliers suffered a significant setback as they lost to the Indiana Pacers, trailing the series 3-1, with Donovan Mitchell leaving the game due to an ankle injury. Coach Kenny Atkinson plans to have Mitchell undergo an MRI to assess the severity of the injury, though Mitchell has reassured fans that he will be ready for Game 5. Despite Mitchell's confidence, the Cavaliers struggled without him, evidenced by their 80-39 halftime deficit. Mitchell's performance in previous games highlights his importance to the team, scoring 43, 33, and 48 points in Games 3, 1, and 2 respectively. With Game 5 being a must-win for Cleveland, Mitchell's potential return is crucial for their chances of staying in the series.

Dive Deeper:

• Donovan Mitchell, the star guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers, suffered an ankle injury which forced him to leave the game early against the Indiana Pacers, resulting in a 129-109 loss and a 3-1 series deficit.

• Coach Kenny Atkinson announced that Mitchell would undergo an MRI to determine the severity of his ankle injury, which occurred just before the second half of Game 4 began.

• Mitchell expressed optimism about his availability for the crucial Game 5, countering concerns by stating he would be ready to play.

• The Cavaliers heavily rely on Mitchell, as illustrated by his impressive scores in previous games, including 43 points in Game 3 and 48 points in Game 2, underlining his critical role in the team's performance.

• Without Mitchell, the Cavaliers struggled significantly, evidenced by their 80-39 halftime score, indicating the challenge they face if he is unable to play in Game 5.

• The potential absence of Mitchell in Game 5 poses a considerable threat to the Cavaliers' chances of advancing in the series, making his return pivotal for their success.

• Matthew Wadleigh, a freelance writer with experience covering sports for various publications, reported on the situation, highlighting the impact of Mitchell's injury on the team's dynamics and playoff ambitions.

• The Cleveland Cavaliers lost to the Indiana Pacers, 129-109, on Sunday to suddenly trail the series 3-1. On top of that, superstar guard Donovan Mitchell left the game early after suffering an ankle injury. 

• Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson revealed that Mitchell will undergo an MRI to see the extent of the injury, which is a worrisome sign for Cleveland. 

• The injury occurred right before the second half began, and the Cavs played without him for the remainder of the game. 

• Donovan Mitchell is doubtful to return after suffering an ankle injury 😬pic.twitter.com/HcHRJHWn6M

• — Backcourt Alerts (@BackcourtAlerts) May 12, 2025  

• However, Mitchell himself appeared to ease any concern with a clear statement, per Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com. 

• “I will be good for Tuesday. You know me. I will see you Tuesday." 

• So, that seems pretty clear from Mitchell, although Atkinson said his star was going to take an MRI. 

• But, the Cavs are a much different team without Mitchell on the floor. In 20 minutes on Sunday, Mitchell had 12 points on 3-of-11 from the field. 

• In the Game 3 win, he had 43 points with nine rebounds on 14-of-29, and he had 33 points in Game 1 and 48 in Game 2, so there is no denying how important he is to this team. 

• Moreover, the Cavs trailed 80-39 at halftime on Sunday, so there was no need to rush Mitchell back, especially with the injury concern. 

• So, for now, all signs point to Mitchell being ready for Game 5 on Tuesday, which is a must-win for Cleveland. 

• MORE CAVS NEWS 

• Donovan Mitchell injury update: Cavaliers exits Game 4 vs. Pacers early with left ankle injury