The NBA officiating spotlight shines brightly once again this season, with accusations swirling around the perceived overprotection of stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Doncic. Now, Donovan Mitchell of the Cleveland Cavaliers has added his voice to the chorus of criticism. After a tough loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, snapping the Cavaliers' seven-game winning streak with a 121-113 defeat, Mitchell was vocal about the officiating.
In a candid post-game interview, the 29-year-old expressed frustration over what he perceived as leniency towards the Thunder's physical play. "Yeah, they foul.
There’s no secret to that. They’re not calling it, so it’s not a foul.
It’s frustrating, but you just can’t let it get under your skin," Mitchell remarked, highlighting a common sentiment among players who feel the calls aren't going their way.
Mitchell, a 7-time NBA All-Star, had a challenging night, heavily guarded by Lu Dort, managing to score 20 points on 9-of-19 shooting. This loss was a significant setback for a team that has been relying on Mitchell, alongside James Harden, to pull through in tight games. The Cavaliers will need to reassess and strategize moving forward.
Amidst these challenges, there's a buzz in Cleveland about the potential return of LeBron James. Rumors have been circulating about a possible rift with the Los Angeles Lakers, sparking speculation about James rejoining the Cavaliers. However, Mitchell remains focused on the present, acknowledging the excitement of such a prospect but emphasizing his commitment to the current team dynamics.
"As a Bron fan, to be able to be a teammate, that would obviously be special, but that’s not something in my control. I control what we got here. There’s always going to be reports; that’s natural," Mitchell stated, keeping his eyes on the ultimate prize-a championship ring.
As the debate over officiating continues, it's clear that Mitchell and the Cavaliers are determined to refine their game and rise above any obstacles, ensuring that their performance speaks louder than any controversy.