Cleveland crushed the Detroit Pistons 125-94 in Game 7, advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2018. A result that carries weight not just because of the score, but because of what it represents after two straight second-round exits.
Donovan Mitchell didn’t hold back when describing the moment:
Even last year, when we lost to Indiana, our goal was the Finals. Now we’re one step closer. For almost ten years it felt like the same story over and over again, so yeah, as a team we can finally breathe a little
Donovan Mitchell
A Game 7 dominated from the start to the end
The game never truly felt competitive. Cleveland came out firing and immediately took control, with Donovan Mitchell orchestrating the offense early and consistently involving his teammates.
The number 45 finished with 26 points, 8 assists, and 6 reboundsdirectly contributing to 43 total points through scoring and assists. One key stat stood out: the Cavs scored on all eight field goals created directly from Mitchell assistsa reflection of a flawless playmaking night.
Mitchell’s distribution was huge for us. We knew getting off to a strong start was crucial to send a message right away
Kenny Atkinson
The final 31-point margin became one of the largest ever recorded by a road team in a Game 7. A clear statement: Cleveland didn’t just win – they completely imposed their rhythm.
Four players score 20+
One of the biggest takeaways from the night was Cleveland’s offensive balance. The Cavs finished with four players scoring at least 20 pointstying a franchise playoff record.
- Sam Merrill scored 23 points and knocked down five threes
- Evan Mobley added 21 points, 10 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks
- Jarrett Allen finished with 23 points and 7 rebounds, once again delivering in a Game 7 setting
Jarrett Allenin particular, is becoming synonymous with big elimination games. Mitchell jokingly gave him a new nickname afterward:
Game 7 JA – that’s his name now
Donovan Mitchell
Next up, the Knicks without taking a break
The next challenge is already waiting: the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finalswith Game 1 at Madison Square Garden just around the corner.
We can breathe for about 12 hours. Then it’s right back to work
Donovan Mitchell
It’s a massive win, but in the playoffs there’s never much time to celebrate. You win, take a breath, and immediately move on to the next battle. Cleveland knows that well – and right now, the Cavs only want to keep pushing forward.
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