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Donovan Mitchell delivered a composed reflection after the Cleveland Cavaliers’ 115-105 win over the Toronto Raptors, emphasizing mental control, defensive execution, and shared leadership during a physical Game 2 battle at Rocket Arena.
“I think we did a solid job,” Mitchell said. “Obviously there’s things we can clean up, but I agree. This is one of those situations where they were going to respond, and you got to give them credit. They did.”
The Cavaliers improved to a 2-0 series lead after withstanding multiple Toronto runs, including a push that trimmed the margin late in the fourth quarter. Mitchell stressed the importance of composure throughout the swings.
“For us, just continue to stay mentally even keel throughout the whole game,” he said. “They made a run, they got it close, but we did what we were supposed to do.”
He also pointed forward, reinforcing urgency despite the advantage. “Now next game is going to be the hardest game for us. So trying to keep the same mindset.”
Cleveland’s offensive core again dictated the matchup, with Mitchell scoring 30 points, James Harden adding 28, and Evan Mobley contributing 25. The trio combined for sustained pressure that Toronto struggled to contain.
Defensively, Mitchell pointed to execution against Toronto’s leading options, especially Brandon Ingram, who finished 3-for-15. Cleveland forced a season-high 22 turnovers from the Raptors, converting them into transition opportunities.
“Just trying to make it tough,” Mitchell said. “He’s a hell of a scorer. Some shots go in, some shots don’t, but the biggest thing is just trying to make it tough on him.”
A major theme from Mitchell’s comments centered on James Harden’s two-way impact, particularly communication and defensive organization.
“He’s obviously an all world offensive talent, but the one thing that jumps out… is the communication about defense,” Mitchell said. “He’s the vocal one on that. He’s like man we just need three stops in a row.”
Mitchell credited that mentality for elevating the entire group’s defensive identity alongside key contributors like Jarrett Allen, Dean Wade, and Sam Merrill.
“We don’t win this game without defense,” he said. “When you have a guy like him coming in and making defense the priority, that goes a long way for the group.”
He also highlighted Harden’s ability to balance offensive responsibility and late-game creation. “Big time shots from him, big time play from him all year long.”
Mitchell noted how offensive spacing around Harden has reduced his workload compared to previous playoff runs. “When you have a guy that can create his own offense for himself and for others… it just makes it tough.”
As the series shifts toward Game 3 in Toronto, Mitchell’s message stayed consistent: control possessions, maintain discipline, and prepare for a higher-intensity response on the road.
“We have to be better getting a better shot early in the clock, especially on the road,” he said.
