Cavaliers Nets highlights Mitchell scores 35 in win

Donovan Mitchell scores 35 points as the Cavaliers beat the Nets 131-124. Jarrett Allen and Sam Merrill shine in Cleveland’s first win of the season.Cavaliers Nets highlights.
In a high-scoring clash at the Barclays Center on Friday night, Donovan Mitchell exploded for 35 points, helping the Cleveland Cavaliers edge past the Brooklyn Nets 131-124. Jarrett Allen contributed 22 points, while Sam Merrill added another 22, giving Cleveland their first win of the season after a tough opening loss to the New York Knicks.

Cavaliers Build a Big Lead Before Nets Fight Back

The Cavaliers dominated much of the game, building a 25-point advantage in the third quarter. Cleveland’s offensive efficiency was on full display, as the team shot 44-of-82 from the field and converted 18-of-42 from beyond the arc. Remarkably, they made 9-of-11 three-pointers in the third quarter alone, stretching their lead and keeping the Nets on their heels.

However, Brooklyn refused to roll over. Cam Thomas scored 33 points, and Michael Porter Jr. added 31, mounting a strong comeback attempt in the fourth quarter. Rookie Egor Demin’s clutch 3-pointer brought the Nets within one possession late in the game, creating a tense finish.

Key Moments Define the Finish

With the game hanging in the balance at 121-120, Cleveland capitalized on a series of missed Nets shots, scoring six consecutive points to secure a 127-120 lead with under a minute left. Donovan Mitchell, who made 10-of-15 shots, played a pivotal role in keeping the Cavaliers ahead in crunch time, showcasing his scoring versatility and leadership on the court.

Standout Performances Fuel Cavaliers’ Victory

• Donovan Mitchell: 35 points on efficient shooting, leading the team offensively.
• Jarrett Allen: 22 points and key interior presence.
• Sam Merrill: 22 points, adding depth to Cleveland’s scoring.
• Evan Mobley: 13 points and defensive stability.

For the Nets, Cam Thomas and Michael Porter Jr. shined, but the team’s inability to convert crucial opportunities late in the game proved costly.

What This Win Means for Cleveland

This victory marks an important first step for the Cavaliers this season, giving them confidence after a narrow loss in their opener. The team demonstrated offensive firepower and the ability to withstand a late-game surge, signaling a promising start to the 2025 season.

Cavaliers Nets highlights