Donovan Mitchell addressed the Cleveland Cavaliers mindset going forward after defeating NBA Cup champions Milwaukee Bucks.

On Friday night, the Cleveland Cavaliers made a resounding statement with a dominant 124-101 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks. Donovan Mitchell led the charge with 27 points, 6 assists, and 4 rebounds in just 27 minutes, exemplifying his ability to lead the Cavaliers to their league-best record of 24-4.

Despite the Bucks entering the game fresh off their $500k prize for winning the NBA Cup championship, they struggled to match the Cavaliers’ intensity, particularly in the absence of Damian Lillard, who was sidelined with a calf injury. Following the game, Donovan Mitchell joined the broadcast for an on-court interview reflecting on the Cavs and his own mindset given their success so far this season.

We have a level of tenacity, go harder, always continuing and not being satisfied with where we’re at. Up 30 doesn’t matter.

Donovan Mitchell shared during the postgame interview

Donovan Mitchell’s words have been a major part of the Cavaliers’ relentless approach to each game this season. The Cavs have consistently blown out opposition teams with their infamous ‘Cavalanche’ sequences, which see them scoring points in a flurry.

Donovan Mitchell’s words have been a major part of the Cavaliers’ relentless approach to each game this season. The Cavs have consistently blown out opposition teams with their infamous ‘Cavalanche’ sequences, which see them scoring points in a flurry.

Is Donovan Mitchell a dark horse for MVP?

With the Cavaliers sitting atop the standings, Donovan Mitchell’s role in their success has sparked discussions about his MVP candidacy. While names like Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Luka Doncic dominate the MVP ladder, Mitchell is quietly making a strong case as a dark horse contender.

Mitchell’s performance against the Bucks was a testament to his offensive versatility. He scored efficiently, both inside and beyond the arc, enabling Cleveland to shoot 50.5% from the field and 42.6% from three-point range.

For the season, Donovan Mitchell is averaging 23.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game on 44.8% shooting. While these numbers might not be career highs, they reflect his pivotal role in the Cavaliers’ rise to the top of the league. Mitchell has also shined in clutch situations, ranking among the league’s leading fourth-quarter scorers with 7.5 points per game in the final frame.

Although Mitchell currently ranks 12th on NBA.com’s MVP ladder, his stock could rise significantly if the Cavaliers maintain their success. His standout performances against top-tier teams like the Bucks and Boston Celtics demonstrate his ability to excel under pressure, a key attribute for MVP consideration.