Jarrett Allen explains the value of having Donovan Mitchell as the Cavaliers’ leader originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as your preferred source by clicking here.
The Cleveland Cavaliers are in the Eastern Conference Finals after claiming victory in Game 7 on the road against the Detroit Pistons. It was a demolition for the Cavaliers, as they defeated the Pistons 125-94.
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It was an impressive win, which means they will play the New York Knicks in the ECF. That was the preseason prediction for the most part, and now it’s a reality thanks to standout nights from Jarrett Allen and Donovan Mitchell.
Jarrett Allen celebrates Donovan Mitchell’s impact as Cavs leader
Since being traded to the Cavaliers in 2022, Mitchell has been their star player. He is the biggest name on the squad, considering he is the natural first choice, and has taken over the leadership role.
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A partner who has been with him all the way has been Allen. They have a natural connection, which is evident in their two-man play when playing the pick-and-roll.
FURTHER: The final score of the seventh game between Cavaliers and Pistons
Mitchell was excellent in Game 7, scoring 26 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists. On the other hand, Allen was also superb with his 23 points and 7 rebounds. It was yet another reason why the Cavs are a tough matchup, especially in a high-stakes Game 7.
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While Allen deserves credit for having a great game, I would be the first to give credit to Mitchell. After the game, he made sure to highlight Mitchell’s impact on the team dynamic.
“He started the game not trying to take control, not trying to score every basket. He started the game trying to distribute the ball. I think that’s huge for a leader like him, to try to get everyone else going and then take second,” Allen said in his post-Game 7 interview.
When some people look at Mitchell, they always see the number one option. He’s a leading scorer, but he’s also a decent playmaker, which was evident early in the Cavs’ Game 7 victory, which they continued to build on to win the series.
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