Mitchell scores 39 points in the second half to lead Cleveland to victory over Detroit
Category: Sports
CLEVELAND (AP) — Donovan Mitchell tied an NBA playoff record by scoring 39 points in the second half, leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 112-103 victory over the Detroit Pistons on May 11, 2026. This performance allowed the Cavaliers to even their second-round series against the Pistons at two games apiece, setting the stage for a decisive Game 5 in Detroit.
Mitchell's scoring spree matched the record set by Eric "Sleepy" Floyd in 1987 during a playoff game against the Los Angeles Lakers. With 27.6 seconds remaining in the game, Mitchell converted a free throw to tie the record but missed a chance to break it with a second foul shot. He finished the night with 43 points, including 15 during a remarkable 24-0 run that spanned the last 12 seconds of the first half and the first six minutes of the third quarter.
The Cavaliers, who trailed 56-52 at halftime, dominated the early moments of the second half, going 10 of 12 from the field and hitting three 3-pointers. They also capitalized on five turnovers by the Pistons, converting them into nine points. This 24-0 run marked the longest in an NBA playoff game since the Minnesota Timberwolves achieved the same feat in their 2024 playoff series.
The Cavaliers' victory was not just a personal triumph for Mitchell but also a reflection of the team's resilience as they sought to recover from a challenging start to the series. Cleveland's performance at home has been impressive, remaining unbeaten in six playoff games this season. The win came after a tough loss in Game 2, where Mitchell struggled, scoring only nine points.
James Harden contributed significantly to the win, recording his 40th playoff double-double with 24 points and 11 assists. Evan Mobley also played a key role, adding 17 points, five blocked shots, and three steals. Caris LeVert led the Pistons with a season-high 24 points, but the team struggled to maintain momentum, especially after a strong start that included a 23-5 run.
As the series continues, the Cavaliers are now ahead to Game 5, scheduled for May 13, 2026, in Detroit. This matchup will be a test of Cleveland's ability to adapt and respond under pressure, particularly as they face a Pistons team eager to reclaim their footing.
Game 5 will likely be a high-stakes encounter, with both teams needing to capitalize on their strengths. The Cavaliers will aim to build on their recent success and leverage the momentum generated by Mitchell's record-tying performance. Meanwhile, the Pistons will need to regroup and address their defensive lapses, particularly in the second half.
As the playoffs progress, the Cavaliers' reliance on Mitchell's scoring will be closely examined. This season, Cleveland has a remarkable record of 15-1 when Mitchell scores 35 or more points, underscoring his importance to the team's success.
In the Western Conference, the Oklahoma City Thunder continue to impress, taking a commanding 3-0 series lead against the Los Angeles Lakers. Ajay Mitchell, who has stepped up in the absence of injured teammate Jalen Williams, recorded career playoff highs of 24 points and 10 assists without a turnover in a recent victory over the Lakers. This performance has solidified his role as a key player for the Thunder as they pursue a second consecutive NBA championship.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder's MVP, praised Ajay Mitchell's contributions, stating, "He’s a gamer. Works super hard. He’s never shaken by the moment. It might be a shock to the world, but it’s no shock to us." With the Thunder's depth being a focal point of their championship aspirations, Mitchell's emergence is a promising sign for the team's future.
As the playoffs continue, the focus will remain on how these teams adapt to the challenges ahead. For Cleveland, the ability to maintain their home-court advantage will be key, particularly as they look to secure a win in Detroit. For Oklahoma City, sustaining their unbeaten run will be a test of their resilience and depth as they aim for a repeat championship.
The NBA playoffs are heating up, and the excitement surrounding these matchups promises thrilling basketball ahead. With Game 5 on the horizon for the Cavaliers and the Thunder looking to close out their series, fans can expect intense competition and standout performances from their favorite players.