Cavs Respond to Mitchell’s Challenge, Snap Skid with Statement Win
Donovan Mitchell didn’t mince words after the Cavaliers’ loss on Sunday. He stood in front of his team and reminded them exactly who they are-and more importantly, who they’re not anymore.
“This ain’t last year,” Mitchell told the group. “They’re coming for us.
They’re coming for Evan [Mobley]’s DPOY. They’re coming for my All-NBA.
They’re coming for Coach [Kenny Atkinson]’s Coach of the Year. We’re not the underdogs-we’re the hunted.”
It was the kind of message that can either fall flat or light a fire. On Monday, Cleveland showed which direction they chose.
The Cavs looked revitalized in a 135-119 win over the Pacers, snapping their losing streak and playing with the kind of urgency Mitchell demanded. The offense clicked, the energy was up, and the team played like it had something to prove.
It wasn’t just about getting a win-it was about reestablishing their identity. And now, with three straight home games on deck, starting Wednesday against the Trail Blazers, the Cavs have a chance to build real momentum.
Mavs Rookie Ryan Nembhard Makes History in Denver Upset
Every so often, a rookie performance comes along that makes you double-check the box score. Monday night in Denver, Ryan Nembhard delivered one of those games.
The undrafted two-way guard erupted for 28 points on a blistering 12-of-14 shooting, dished out 10 assists, and-here’s the kicker-didn’t commit a single turnover. According to the Mavericks, Nembhard is the first undrafted rookie in the modern era to post at least 25 points and 10 assists with zero turnovers. That’s not just efficient-it’s historic.
“He kind of took over the game,” head coach Jason Kidd said afterward. “He controlled the game.
The ball touches the paint, and he finds Max Christie in the corner for a big three. He was really good.”
This wasn’t a one-off, either. Nembhard has started three of the last four games and is averaging 17.7 points and 5.7 assists in those starts while shooting an eye-popping 60 percent from three. He’s not just holding his own-he’s giving Dallas a serious spark.
And while Nembhard was stealing the spotlight, Anthony Davis reminded everyone he’s still a force to be reckoned with. In just his second game back from a calf strain, Davis dropped 32 points and grabbed 13 rebounds.
“I was tired for sure, but it’s mental,” he said. Even at less than 100 percent, Davis continues to anchor the Lakers with his usual mix of power and finesse.
Bulls Dealing with Mounting Injuries
In Chicago, the Bulls are facing a growing list of injury concerns.
Coby White missed Monday’s game and is set to undergo imaging on his left calf. His availability moving forward remains uncertain. Zach Collins, meanwhile, has been cleared for contact and is expected to practice with the Windy City Bulls this week as he works his way back from wrist surgery.
And the hits kept coming-Kevin Huerter exited early against Orlando with an adductor issue. The team hasn’t provided a timeline yet, leaving another question mark in the Bulls’ rotation.
For a team trying to find consistency, the injury bug couldn’t have come at a worse time.