In a pivotal Game 4 of the NBA playoffs, the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Detroit Pistons 112-103 on their home court, tying the series at 2-2. The victory was fueled by a dominant third quarter where the Cavs outscored the Pistons 38-21.
Donovan Mitchell was the star of the night, playing 36 minutes and finishing with 43 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal on 13-of-26 shooting (4-of-12 from three, 13-of-15 from the free-throw line). After a slow start in the first half with just 4 points, Mitchell exploded in the second half, scoring 39 points—including 21 in the third quarter alone—to single-handedly turn a close game into a blowout.
Mitchell etched his name in the record books with six milestones:
1. Scored 21 points in the third quarter, tying LeBron James and Kyrie Irving for the franchise playoff single-quarter record.
2. Recorded his fifth career playoff quarter with 20+ points, tying Stephen Curry and Jamal Murray for the most in NBA history.
3. Reached his fourth 40-point game as a Cavalier, surpassing Kyrie Irving for second-most in franchise history.
4. Tallied his eighth career 40-point playoff game, tying Curry, Devin Booker, Luka Dončić, Jimmy Butler, and Giannis Antetokounmpo for second all-time.
5. Scored 39 points in the second half, tying Sleepy Floyd for the playoff half-century record.
6. Surpassed Kevin Love for third on the Cavaliers’ all-time playoff scoring list with 970 points.
Meanwhile, James Harden delivered a steady performance, contributing 24 points, 11 assists, 3 steals, and 1 block in 37 minutes, shooting 5-of-14 from the field and 9-of-9 from the line. Harden kept the Cavaliers afloat early with 15 points in the first half when others struggled, then added 9 points and 5 assists in the third quarter alongside Mitchell’s outburst.
Harden also reached a significant milestone, becoming the fourth player in NBA history to accumulate 4,000+ points, 1,000+ rebounds, and 1,000+ assists in the playoffs, joining Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James. The achievement underscores his all-around skills and longevity.
Evan Mobley bounced back from previous struggles, posting 17 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals, and 5 blocks in 39 minutes, leading all players with a +30 plus-minus. He became the first player under 25 since Hakeem Olajuwon to record at least 5 assists, 5 blocks, and 3 steals in a playoff game. Mobley’s aggressive two-way presence showcased why the Cavaliers refused to trade him for Giannis Antetokounmpo and justified his max contract. His continued strong play will be critical for Cleveland’s deep playoff run.
