Context:

Facing injuries to key players like Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De'Andre Hunter, the Cleveland Cavaliers are relying heavily on Donovan Mitchell to carry the scoring load in their playoff series against the Pacers. Mitchell, known for his prolific scoring ability, achieved a career-high of 71 points in a game against the Chicago Bulls in January 2023, where he also recorded eight rebounds and 11 assists. With the absence of significant players, Mitchell's performance becomes crucial for the Cavaliers' success, as evidenced by his 30 shot attempts in Game 1. The team might need Mitchell to deliver even more in subsequent games to stay competitive. The Cavaliers' playoff hopes rest on Mitchell's ability to consistently produce high-scoring performances under pressure.

Dive Deeper:

• Donovan Mitchell's role becomes vital for the Cleveland Cavaliers as they face injuries to Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and De'Andre Hunter, putting the scoring burden primarily on him.

• Mitchell's career-high scoring achievement came in January 2023 when he scored 71 points against the Chicago Bulls, showcasing his capability to dominate a game offensively.

• In the absence of key players, Mitchell took 30 shots in Game 1 against the Pacers, indicating the increased reliance on his scoring prowess by the Cavaliers.

• The Cavaliers might require Mitchell to put up a 50-point game or more to maintain their competitiveness in the series, highlighting the pressure on him to deliver consistently.

• Mitchell's performance in high-pressure situations is pivotal for the Cavaliers' playoff hopes as they navigate through the challenges posed by injuries to their core players.

• It's Donovan Mitchell time.

• That's the only way the Cleveland Cavaliers can save their season amid injuries to Darius Garland, Evan Mobley and De'Andre Hunter.

• With news of all three of those absences ahead of Game 2 vs. the Pacers, Mitchell's scoring load immediately came into the center of the stage.

• He took 30 shots in Game 1, but might have to take more in Game 2 and beyond.

• Buckle up.

• MORE: How long is Evan Mobley out?

• What is Donovan Mitchell's career high?

  Donovan Mitchell's career-high for scoring in a game is 71 points.

• Mitchell dropped 71 points in an overtime game against the Chicago Bulls in January of 2023.

• He even had eight rebounds and 11 assists in that game.

• MORE: Knicks' Jalen Brunson has incredible fourth-quarter stats

• Donovan Mitchell's highest-scoring points games

  Donovan Mitchell's highest point totals in NBA games are as follows:

• • 71
  • Four games with 46
  • Two games with 45
  • Two games with 44
  • Three games with 43
  • Five games with 42
  • Six games with 41
  The Cavs might need a 50-piece before this series is over.

• MORE: Jimmy Butler's return to Minnesota recalls infamous practice story