Cavs Top 3: Donovan Mitchell breaks a franchise record in win over the Washington Wizards

The Cleveland Cavaliers saw Donovan Mitchell break a franchise record over the Washington Wizards

The Cleveland Cavaliers got the win on Sunday night against the Washington Wizards to the tune of 117-107. Sure, the Cavs fell apart with sloppy play in the final minutes of the fourth quarter and allowed the Wizards to force over time, but a win is a win. The Cavaliers were carried by Donovan Mitchell, who was playing his third game (two games and three quarters) without Darius Garland and for the third straight game Mitchell went off for over 30 points.

His final of 37 put him in elite company, breaking a franchise record that was once held by Austin Carr for the most points over three games (or was it the first three games) of a season. When Mitchell broke that record, Cavaliers’ legend Brad Daugherty had fans rolling when he praised Carr for his record, but the mentioned how it took Carr 90 shots to get his 90 points.

Something everyone found rather silly and comical. To say Daugherty’s arrival on the Cavaliers desk is a welcome addition is an understatement as he provides so much to the games.

As for the game itself, The Cavs had a commanding lead but poor shot selection from Caris LeVert and Evan Mobley (of all people) really hampered the offense. Another interesting choice was leaving Kevin Love on the bench for as long as they did. Despite out-rebounding everyone when he was on the court, he was limited to just 14 minutes.

Dean Wade played a good deal, 21 minutes, and scored 12 points. His defense and two-way presence, plus his efficiency, make him a valuable option the Cavs can’t keep sacrificing to the likes of LeVert.

The Cavs play next on Wednesday against the Orlando Magic.

Cleveland Cavaliers top three performers against the Washington Wizards

One Point – Jarrett Allen

Jarrett Allen had 15 points and 14 rebounds and didn’t play his best basketball all game. Yet, in the final two frames of action, Allen exploded defensively, keeping the surging Wizards at bay. So while Wade had a better output in the minutes he played, Allen had more key plays to help seal the win.

Two Points – Cedi Osman

To say we’re seeing the best that Cedi Osman has ever been is not a lie. He’s playing remarkable basketball on both sides of the court. He shot 6-10 from the floor, and 3-5 from three-point, finishing with 16 points and three assists. His cutting action has given him the confidence that he has seemingly lacked at times and that has transitioned well to the action on the court.

Three Points – Donovan Mitchell

When you drop 30+ in three straight games, it’s hard to warrant anyone else getting the top marks in the game. Mitchell has taken over the team and while it has affected some of the others’ play, like Mobley’s, it’s also brought out the best of Osman. The hope is that despite Mitchell’s shot volume, guys like Garland, Mobley, and Ricky Rubio find their fit as well.

Season Standings

1. Donovan Mitchell – 9 Points
2. Cedi Osman – 5 Points
3. Kevin Love – 2 Points
4. Jarrett Allen – 2 Points