The Cavaliers are flying high this season. Before their game against the Magic, the Cavs were tied for the 5th-best start through 66 games in NBA history along with the Spurs of 2015-16 and the 76ers of 1966-67. Coming off a not-so-successful run at the Brooklyn Nets, the Cavs HC Kenny Atkinson is now setting a new benchmark for all modern-era coaches.
But you also can not ignore the fact that Donovan Mitchell has been in the form of his life this season and has been key to the Cavs’ successful run. So, when Mitchell got himself injured during the Bucks game, it seemed like the Cavs’ unbeaten streak would finally be over. Yet, defying expectations, Atkinson’s squad secured two more wins without their best player. However, Mitchell’s much-anticipated return against Orlando did not go as planned, and after suffering their first loss in 17 games, Atkinson had some strong words to share.
Spidey Mitchell was back. The crowd at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse was fired up, the energy was electric, and Cleveland had a chance to extend its historic 16-game winning streak. But instead of celebrating another victory, the Cavaliers walked off the court with a tough 108-103 loss to the Orlando Magic.
Now, don’t get it twisted—Mitchell had his moments. He dropped 23 points, grabbed six boards, and dished out five assists. But something felt off. His rhythm wasn’t quite there, and the shooting struggles were hard to ignore. He went just 9-for-28 from the field, a brutal 32.1%, and an even rougher 3-for-14 from three. And honestly? He wasn’t the only one struggling.Cleveland, as a team, just couldn’t buy a three. They shot 10-for-40 from deep—25% on their home floor. That’s not going to win many games, especially against a young, hungry Orlando squad. After the game, head coach Kenny Atkinson didn’t sugarcoat it.
