Mitchell’s 41 leads Cavs in comeback over Celtics 123-116

In a thrilling contest in Boston, Donovan Mitchell led the charge for the Cleveland Cavaliers with an impressive 41-point performance, including a crucial 12 points in the fourth quarter, as the team clawed their way back from a 22-point deficit to defeat the Boston Celtics 123-116. The game marked the final regular-season meeting between two of the Eastern Conference’s top teams.

Darius Garland contributed significantly with 20 points and seven assists, while Evan Mobley compiled his 27th double-double of the season with 17 points and 12 rebounds. This victory allowed the Cavaliers to secure a split in the four-game regular-season series, with the playoffs looming just over two months away.

Despite the Celtics missing starters Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, they started strong with a 25-3 lead. However, the Cavaliers rebounded with a decisive 41-22 run, gradually edging back into contention. Jayson Tatum had a stellar performance for Boston with 46 points, 16 rebounds, and nine assists, while Jaylen Brown added 37 points. This marked the first occasion this season where both star players scored over 30 points in a game.

The game’s momentum shifted in the final moments. With the score tied at 114-114, Donovan Mitchell broke the deadlock with a floater and cemented the Cavaliers’ lead with a driving layup, followed by a successful free throw, giving Cleveland a 119-114 advantage in the closing minutes.

Tatum’s remarkable first half was one for the record books, as he became the first NBA player in the play-by-play era to register 30 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists in just one half of play.

Looking forward, both teams are scheduled to play on Sunday. The Cavaliers will host the Trail Blazers, while the Celtics are set to face the Nuggets at home.