Mitchell Drops 31 as Cavs Deny Hawks a Playoff Clinch

The Hawks had a chance to clinch a playoff spot and the Southeast Division title. Donovan Mitchell said no.

Mitchell torched Atlanta for 31 points on 12-of-19 shooting — his 200th regular-season game with at least 20 points as a Cavalier. Evan Mobley was a monster with 22 points and a career-high 19 rebounds, while James Harden chipped in 21.

Cleveland blew the game open with a 44-20 third quarter to lead 104-87, but the Hawks stormed back with a 22-8 run to start the fourth. Nickeil Alexander-Walker (25 points) and Jonathan Kuminga (24 off the bench) nearly pulled off the comeback before Allen's clutch steal sealed it at 122-116. The Hawks will have to clinch another night.