Cleveland, OH – April 13, 2025
The Cleveland Cavaliers are expecting All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell to return in time for Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs, following a left ankle sprain that sidelined him for the final four games of the regular season.
Mitchell Nearing Full Recovery Ahead of Postseason
Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson offered an encouraging update Sunday, confirming that Mitchell is progressing well and will participate in full-contact practice and team scrimmages this week.
“He’ll be full on with practice,” Atkinson said. “He’ll participate in scrimmage with refs. The key is continuing ankle rehab and building up his conditioning.”
Injury Timeline:
-
Injury Date: April 6 vs. Sacramento Kings
-
Games Missed: Final four of the regular season
-
Recent Activity:
-
Completed full workout Saturday at team facility
-
Participated in pregame court work Sunday before matchup vs. Indiana
-
Why Mitchell’s Return Is Crucial
Mitchell has been the engine behind the Cavaliers’ elite season, leading the team in scoring with 24.0 points per game while maintaining standout efficiency. Remarkably, he is the only NBA player averaging 24+ PPG in 32 minutes or fewer per game this season.
He also remains one of the league’s most trusted clutch performers and played a pivotal role in helping Cleveland secure the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference with a 63-18 record — the franchise’s best since the 2016 championship campaign.
Cavaliers’ Postseason Outlook
-
Playoff Seeding: No. 1 in the Eastern Conference
-
Final Regular Season Record: 63-18
-
Playoff Start Date: Expected April 20, following conclusion of East play-in
-
Mitchell’s Status: On track to start Game 1 barring any setbacks
Mitchell’s availability not only elevates Cleveland’s title hopes but reaffirms their identity as a two-way juggernaut ready for a deep playoff run.
