Donovan Mitchell has another 30-point Game 1 performance for the Cleveland Cavaliers.
If there’s one thing the Cleveland Cavaliers can count on when the calendar flips to April and the postseason begins, it’s Donovan Mitchell showing up and meeting the moment.
Throughout his entire career, the All-Star guard has put together some incredible playoff moments, and that continued in Cleveland’s Game 1 first-round matchup against the Toronto Raptors.
Most importantly, the Cavaliers won Game 1, 126-113, and Mitchell played a key role in that with yet another impressive offensive performance.
Mitchell ended the game with 32 points, which extended an already historic playoff scoring streak. The Cavaliers guard has now scored 30 or more points in seven consecutive Game 1 matchups, dating back to the 2020 NBA Playoffs, which is the longest streak of its kind in NBA history.
That’s longer than the previous streaks of other NBA legends, such as Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Wilt Chamberlain.
This was also Mitchell's 13th 30-point playoff game since joining the Cavaliers four years ago, which passed Kyrie Irving (12), moving him into second place for the most in franchise history. LeBron James still leads the way with 77 30-point playoff games. That’s one record Mitchell will likely never break.
“He’s so focused,” said Kenny Atkinson on Mitchell’s 30-point game. “I could see the process. He just gets more locked in than ever [in the playoffs].”
Cleveland’s coach liked how Mitchell attacked the rim. “I loved how downhill he was,” continued Kenny. “He can try those pirouette threes, but I think he was locked in on getting to the rim.”
Apr 18, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) celebrates after hitting a three point basket against the Toronto Raptors during the second half of game one in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn ImagesMitchell reflected on this accomplishment after the win, and noted that his goal isn’t necessarily to score 30 points, but he’s always looking to set the tone in Game 1.
“It just so happens it’s 30 [points],” said Mitchell. “It’s getting downhill, taking the open shot, taking what’s given to me, and obviously making the defense have to react.”
This mindset of setting the tone early and getting to the rim is certainly working out for Mitchell and Cleveland, and it’s one that must continue throughout the postseason, not just in Game 1.
Hopefully, the Cavaliers will win their current series against the Raptors, and Mitchell will get a chance to extend this current streak to 10 games with another 30-point Game 1 performance later in these current playoffs.
Cavs Roundtable also offers a fan community and message board. We’d love to have you join us to talk all things Cavs. Click the “Join” button at the top of the page to join our community for free.