Donovan Mitchell steadied Cavs before bold James Harden move

The Cavaliers didn’t panic when the season wobbled. They looked inward.

As ESPN’s Jamal Collier detailed, the Cavs leaned heavily on Donovan Mitchell’s leadership during an uneven stretch that included injuries, mounting losses and real questions about the roster’s ceiling.

“It’s so important that your best player doesn’t go sideways,” coach Kenny Atkinsonsaid, via Collier. “Donovan was key to that. He’s a positive guy. He kept us moving in the right direction.”

Mitchell averaged 28.5 points while often carrying a short-handed lineup. But sources told ESPN he also didn’t want complacency at the trade deadline. The Cavs dug deeper — what Atkinson called “the five whys” — and ultimately pivoted from Darius Garland to James Harden.

Harden’s availability played a role. Over the past three seasons, he has appeared in 202 games. Garland played 158.

“He plays. He didn’t miss games, he didn’t miss practices either,” Bucks coach Doc Rivers said.

According to Collier, Atkinson even drew inspiration from baseball, recalling how Cleveland Guardians star Jose Ramirez helped steady his clubhouse during a losing streak. The parallel was obvious.

“That’s Donovan Mitchell,” Atkinson thought.

The early returns have been promising. Jarrett Allen has thrived alongside Harden, and the locker room appears unified.

“We’re good,” Harden said. “But we got a few more notches to get to.”

All along, the message has been clear. The Cavs aren’t waiting around anymore.

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