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Donovan Mitchell reportedly pressured the Cleveland Cavaliers to make a big move before the trade deadline, and now they have James Harden.
With a big night from Donovan Mitchell, the Cleveland Cavaliers tie up the second-round series against the Detroit Pistons 2-2.
In addition to getting the series to an even score, Mitchell made franchise history, as he put the team on his back in Game 4.
via ESPN Insights: Game 4 vs. Detroit marks Donovan Mitchell’s fourth 40-point playoff game with the Cavaliers, passing Kyrie Irving for second-most in franchise history 🔥. Only LeBron James (24) has more.
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 31: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers controls the ball against the Los Angeles Lakers in the first half at Crypto.com Arena on March 31, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
Mitchell likely won’t have enough time with the Cavs to catch LeBron’s high number, but it’s still an incredible list to be on.
In Monday’s Game 4 action, Mitchell checked in for just over 35 minutes. He had a slow first half, scoring under five points through the first two quarters.
The Cavaliers came out dominant in the second half. Mitchell ended the game with 42 points on 13-25 shooting from the field. He went 4-12 from three, and hit on 12-13 shots from the charity stripe.
Along with his scoring, Mitchell came down with five rebounds, dished out two assists, and picked up one steal.
Donovan Mitchell’s Cleveland Legacy
GettyCLEVELAND, OHIO – NOVEMBER 19: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers shoots against Clint Capela #30 of the Houston Rockets during the first half at Rocket Arena on November 19, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images)
After spending the first five years of his NBA career with the Utah Jazz, Donovan Mitchell is currently in the midst of his fourth season with the Cavaliers.
The 2026 playoffs mark his fourth postseason run in a row with the team. Heading into Game 4 against the Pistons, Mitchell was averaging 25.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.0 assists, while shooting 45.5% from the field and hitting on 32.2% of his threes.
GettySALT LAKE CITY, UTAH – MARCH 30: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts to a play during the first half against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center on March 30, 2026 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
Overall, Mitchell has produced 27.3 points per game and 4.4 assists per game in the playoffs since joining the Cavaliers.
Monday night’s victory is just another impressive outing to add to his Cleveland legacy.
Justin Grasso Justin Grasso is an NBA reporter, covering trending league news, transactions, injuries, and player developments. He is a credentialed journalist with nearly a decade of insider access. More about Justin Grasso
