Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell has been activated and placed in the starting lineup for Wednesday night's game against the New Orleans Pelicans. Mitchell, who is averaging a team-high 28 points per game this season, returns after missing the Cavaliers' previous seven games due to a left knee bruise.
Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff expressed confidence in Mitchell's impact on the team, stating that his presence boosts the team's morale and makes it easier for other players due to the attention he draws from opposing defenses. Bickerstaff emphasized Mitchell's leadership role, highlighting how teammates look to him in challenging situations.
The Cavaliers have struggled in Mitchell's absence, losing four of the seven games he missed. Facing a Pelicans team on a four-game winning streak, Mitchell's return comes at a crucial time for Cleveland.
Additionally, Bickerstaff provided an update on Evan Mobley, who plays center and power forward for the Cavaliers. Mobley, who had been sidelined for the previous four games with a left ankle sprain, is progressing physically. While there is no specific timeline for Mobley's return to the lineup, Bickerstaff mentioned that he is gradually increasing his on-court activities as part of his recovery process.
