Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson could barely find the words to describe what he witnessed in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. But when he did, it spoke volumes.
“I don’t use that word hardly ever,” Atkinson admitted, referring to calling Donovan Mitchell’s performance “masterful.” “But tonight? That was just on another level.”
Donovan Mitchell put on a historic display Friday night, torching the opposing defense for 48 points, 9 assists, and 6 rebounds in a thrilling 117-112 win over the Boston Celtics. The performance gave the Cavaliers a crucial 2–1 series lead and sent Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse into a frenzy.
Mitchell’s shot-making was relentless — contested threes, explosive drives, fadeaways off the dribble — and his poise under pressure turned a tight fourth quarter into a statement win. Atkinson, who took over as Cavaliers head coach last offseason, couldn’t help but show reverence for his All-Star guard.
“He was in complete control,” Atkinson continued. “His decision-making, his leadership, his will — it lifted everyone on the floor. That’s what greatness looks like.”
Mitchell’s playoff reputation continues to grow, with Friday’s game adding to his ever-expanding collection of clutch performances. It’s moments like these that the Cavaliers envisioned when they acquired the former Utah Jazz star in 2022.
After the game, Mitchell remained humble despite the accolades.
“I just wanted to set the tone,” Mitchell said. “We knew how important this game was, especially at home. My teammates kept feeding me confidence, and I just kept attacking.”
Game 4 looms large, and with the Cavaliers regaining home-court advantage, the momentum now firmly rests with Cleveland. But if Game 3 was any indication, Donovan Mitchell is prepared to carry that weight.
As Kenny Atkinson summed it up, sometimes greatness doesn’t need overstatement — just recognition.
