Mitchell is out with a groin injury.
The Cleveland Cavaliers list All-NBA guard Donovan Mitchell as OUT for their game against the Portland Trail Blazers. This caps off a West Coast road trip in which Mitchell has played every game.
Mitchell first tweaked his groin in early March. He missed consecutive games against the Brooklyn Nets and Memphis Grizzlies. Since then, he’s played in five straight games with the Cavs going 1-4 in this time.
The on-court performances haven’t been great for Mitchell. He’s shooting 29-94 (30.9%) since the injury. However, his mobility hasn’t looked like an issue. Mitchell is maneuvering around the defense like he usually does. It’s just the shots aren’t falling. He’s gone 6-42 (14.6%) from deep and 23-52 (44.2%) inside of the paint.
A cautious approach makes all the sense in the world. There’s no need to work Mitchell into the dirt when his team is on the verge of clinching the best record in the conference. A night of rest before heading back to Cleveland after a long time on the road is valid. It shouldn’t be a long-term concern.
The Cavs will look to get back on track officially with a win in Portland. Previously beating the Utah Jazz is fine and dandy but it doesn’t mean the Cavs are in the clear. Winning a second straight game and showcasing some stability after a rocky month would be nice.
Portland is not a team to gloss over. They took the Cavs to overtime in Cleveland on March 2 and have gone 20-17 at home this season. A young, hungry team won’t roll over on their homefloor. The Cavs will have to earn this one.