Donovan Mitchell injury update: Cavaliers exits Game 4 vs. Pacers early with left ankle injury
Context:
Facing a significant 41-point halftime deficit in Game 4 against the Pacers, the Cleveland Cavaliers were further setback as their star player Donovan Mitchell did not return for the second half due to a left ankle injury. Mitchell, who had scored 12 points in the first half, aggravated his ankle during halftime warm-ups and was replaced by Ty Jerome. The Cavaliers ultimately lost the game 129-109, falling into a 3-1 deficit in the series. The severity of Mitchell's injury will be assessed with an MRI, which will determine his availability for the remainder of the series. Mitchell had performed exceptionally in the first three games, averaging 41.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 6.0 assists, and his absence could significantly impact Cleveland's chances of recovering in the series.
Dive Deeper:
Donovan Mitchell did not return for the second half of Game 4 against the Pacers due to a left ankle injury, leaving the Cavaliers to start the half with Ty Jerome in his place.
During halftime, Mitchell appeared to aggravate his ankle injury, leading to his absence in the crucial second half of the game, which Cleveland lost 129-109.
Mitchell scored 12 points on 3-of-11 shooting in the first half, but the Cavaliers struggled significantly, trailing 80-39 at halftime.
Cleveland's defeat in Game 4 put them in a 3-1 series deficit, heightening the importance of Mitchell's health and recovery for the team's future in the playoffs.
An MRI will be conducted to determine the severity of Mitchell's injury and his potential availability for the remainder of the series, which is critical given his impressive performance in the first three games.
In the initial games of the series, Mitchell had been a standout performer, averaging 41.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 6.0 assists, indicating his pivotal role in the team's success.
The Cavaliers will require Mitchell's return and exceptional performance to overcome the current series deficit and advance further in the playoffs.
Things somehow went from bad to worse after the Cavaliers entered halftime facing a record 41-point deficit in Game 4 vs. the Pacers.
As Cleveland returned to the court from the halftime break, All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell was noticeably absent as he remained in the locker room. The Cavs started the second half with reserve guard Ty Jerome playing in Mitchell's place.
What happened to Mitchell? Here is what is known about Mitchell's noticeable absence to begin the second half of a crucial Game 4.
Donovan Mitchell injury update
Mitchell is dealing with a left ankle injury. He did not return to Game 4 in the second half and Cleveland suffered a 129-109 loss to fall into a 3-1 series deficit.Cavaliers head coach said that Mitchell will undergo an MRI to determine the severity of his ankle injury. The findings will determine Mitchell's availability for the remainder of the series.
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As Mitchell warmed up during halftime, he appeared to aggravate pain in his ankle. Mitchell began to favor his ankle, causing a teammate to check on him during warm ups.
Donovan Mitchell is doubtful to return after suffering an ankle injury đŹpic.twitter.com/HcHRJHWn6M
â Backcourt Alerts (@BackcourtAlerts) May 12, 2025 Mitchell returned to the locker room for treatment and more attention and stayed there as the second half of Game 4 began.
Mitchell scored 12 points on 3-of-11 shooting in the first half, and Cleveland trailed at the break, 80-39. In Games 1 through 3 of the series, Mitchell put up averages of 41.3 points, 6.3 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game.
Cleveland will need more Herculean efforts from its superstar to overcome the 3-1 deficit.
This story will be updated.