Donovan Mitchell and the Cavs eliminate the Magic in seven games

Donovan Mitchell delivered a stunning 39-point performance, propelling the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 106-94 victory over the Orlando Magic in Game 7, securing their advancement in the Eastern Conference playoffs. Caris LeVert chipped in with 15 points, but it was Mitchell's heroics that truly saved the day for Cleveland, especially after dropping 50 points in a tough Game 6 loss.

The game was a nail-biter, with Cleveland initially trailing by 18 in the first half, stirring fears of another first-round exit which could have spelled disaster for the franchise. However, Mitchell, battling a persistent left knee injury, hoisted the team on his shoulders and rallied them past a spirited but inexperienced Orlando squad.

Evan Mobley was a tower of strength, snagging 16 rebounds along with scoring 11 points and blocking five shots. Darius Garland, despite a slow start, came alive in the second half, adding 10 crucial points, including a pivotal three-pointer in the fourth quarter that helped widen the gap.

The Cavaliers overcame the largest Game 7 deficit since at least 1997, turning around an 18-point lag to clinch their first playoff series win without LeBron James since 1993. They now face the top-seeded Boston Celtics, who have had ample rest, in the second round.


Paolo Banchero led the Magic with 38 points and 16 rebounds, but his performance dipped after halftime, and teammates Franz Wagner and Jalen Suggs struggled, shooting a combined 3 of 28.

As the Cavaliers gear up for the Celtics, they'll be without Jarrett Allen, who missed the last three games due to a rib injury. Yet, with Mitchell's leadership and the team's newfound resilience, Cleveland's hopes for a deep playoff run are very much alive.

Source SI: Cavaliers Advance, Eliminate Magic In Game 7 Thriller
Source ESPN: Donovan Mitchell, Cavaliers storm back, oust Magic in Game 7