The Cleveland Cavaliers were in a dream run after their last loss, which came almost a month and a half ago against the Raptors, and no one thought that the horsemen’s ride would come to a halt in a ‘magical‘ way. And this has forced the big guys of Cleveland to talk again. The Cavaliers opened the scoring on Sunday, but it was the Magic who finished it. And with that, the 16-game winning streak came crashing down. The red-hot home side suddenly turned cold. The Rocket Arena fell silent. And there was much to reflect on from the 103-108 loss. So, Donovan Mitchell didn’t hold back from delivering a much-needed reality check to his backcourt partner, Darius Garland.

The Cavs racked up 38 points in the first quarter but then struggled to score more than 23 in the remaining three quarters. Naturally, when reporters gathered around Mitchell in the locker room for an interview, he was asked what went wrong with their offense. Without a second thought, the shooting guard replied, “It wasn’t our best executed fourth quarter turnovers—myself, DG, we got to be better.” The season has seen the best of the teams fall apart after one hit, and Mitchell knows there’s no room for excuse.

Further explaining what didn’t work out, Mitchell added, “On the other side, we missed some open looks. I think the biggest thing, we just didn’t execute late the right way like we have been. And I always tell you, I’m not going to be perfect. This was one of those nights where we kind of fell into it, myself included, and we’ll just be better.” The mindset, the ownership, probably that’s what set them apart this season.

Mitchell had no hesitation in acknowledging that the team wasn’t at its best against Orlando, especially in key moments like the play with Banchero hitting the tying three. However, he also pointed out that no team is perfect. They have already proven their form, holding an impressive 56-11 record this season, the best in the league so far. Hence, this defeat, more than demotivation, serves as a learning opportunity for improvement, and that’s what Spida wants for both himself and Garland.

Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland have undoubtedly formed one of the most dynamic backcourts in the league. Their on-court chemistry has been a game-changer for Cleveland, and it’s evident in their performances. They’ve consistently stepped up for the team. So, there can be days when it’s just not meant to be for them. And Sunday was one of those days.

Mitchell contributed 23 points along with 5 assists, while Garland added 19 points with one less assist. Both grabbed 6 rebounds for the team, but it simply wasn’t enough to beat the Magic, who are still struggling in the league with just 3-7 wins in their last 10 appearances. So will the team morale take a hit? Mitchell further explained.

Mitchell recognized the mistakes made by his team, particularly in the third quarter, which allowed Orlando to gain the edge. However, he also emphasized regarding the loss, “Nothing to overreact to or freak out about. Like, we’ll be better, we have no doubt.” Keeping everything aside, the loss exposed something important. It highlighted how much the Cavs need Evan Mobley.

Donovan Mitchell sheds light on the Impact of Evan Mobley’s absence in the loss

The Cavaliers’ lineup was already thin when it didn’t have Evan Mobley’s name. The offensive center was sidelined due to a contusion on his right foot. And clearly, the team missed him on the court, as Donovan Mitchell confirmed. When the media asked him about Mobley’s importance in the game, Mitchell instantly responded, “1000%… I’ve been trying to tell you that from the beginning of the year.” While his presence would have made a significant difference, Mitchell took responsibility for the loss, stating it was on them to secure the win.

“But, like I said, this is a game where, obviously, he would help big time, but we also got to hold ourselves accountable because we should have won this game,” he added. “But maybe one day, y’all believe me when I said Evan Mobley is who he is.” And this is what sets apart Kenneth Neil Atkinson’s men. Though everyone has defined roles, they can’t rely on one in a team game.

Although things didn’t go the Cavaliers’ way on Sunday, they will, of course, be able to bounce back because of the potential they show as a team. And it’s not like anyone can surpass them in the standings, but with the playoffs nearing, overconfidence could undo everything.