Donovan Mitchell’s 42-point performance helped the Cleveland Cavaliers secure a 136-131 victory over the Orlando Magic. The Cavaliers have now won four games in a row. James Harden contributed 26 points to the win.
Mitchell’s Dominance Against Orlando
Mitchell’s 42 points marked his sixth game this season with at least 40 points. This total is tied for fourth-most in the league. It was his third 40-point game in 23 regular-season meetings against Orlando.
Mitchell is averaging 27.2 against the Magic. That is the sixth-highest scoring average of any player in NBA history against Orlando.
Harden’s Scoring Surge
Harden, after being scoreless in the first half of Saturday’s game, scored 22 points in the first half against the Magic. He also made three 3-pointers. It was his most points in the first two quarters since joining the Cavaliers.
Mobley’s Efficient Performance
Evan Mobley added 19 points for Cleveland. He made all eight of his shots from the field. Mobley also had nine rebounds and six assists.
Magic’s Losing Streak
Paolo Banchero scored 36 points for Orlando. Tristan da Silva had 18 points, while Desmond Bane and Jamal Cain scored 17 apiece. The Magic (38-34) have now lost six straight games. They have dropped into a three-way tie with Charlotte and Miami for eighth place in the Eastern Conference.
Game Summary
The Cavaliers (45-27) are 2 1/2 games behind the Knicks for third in the Eastern Conference. Cleveland held a 114-103 lead with 9:19 remaining. Orlando then began to rally back.
Wendell Carter Jr. made a pair of free throws with 37.5 seconds remaining. Mitchell then hit a floating 7-foot jumper with 13.7 seconds left, giving the Cavaliers breathing room.
Banchero scored 16 in the first quarter as Orlando went up 39-32 after 12 minutes. He was 5 of 7 from the field in the first quarter but 5 of 12 the rest of the game.
Looking Ahead
The Magic will host the Sacramento Kings on Thursday. The Cavaliers will host the Miami Heat on Wednesday.