Cavaliers Donovan Mitchell Ankle Injury Puts Game 5 Status In Doubt

The Cleveland Cavaliers face elimination in Game 5 of their Eastern Conference Semifinals series against the Indiana Pacers, with star guard Donovan Mitchell's status uncertain due to an ankle injury. Mitchell suffered the injury during Game 4, which he left early after playing only 20 minutes, and an MRI revealed a reaggravation of a previous ankle issue. Despite the injury, Mitchell has expressed confidence in playing Game 5, but he remains a game-time decision as the Cavaliers hope to avoid elimination while dealing with multiple injuries to key players including Darius Garland and Evan Mobley. Mitchell has been the team's leading performer in the series, averaging 34 points per game, and his health is seen as critical to the Cavaliers' chances of mounting a comeback from a 3-1 series deficit. Head coach Kenny Atkinson and medical staff are closely monitoring Mitchell's condition, with backup guard Ty Jerome potentially set to start if Mitchell cannot play. The series continues Tuesday night in Cleveland, with the Cavaliers' season hanging in the balance.