Cavaliers earn must-win Game 3 victory at home, defeating Pistons 116-109 with Donovan Mitchell scoring 35 points
Yahoo Sports • • general
Key Points:
- The Cleveland Cavaliers won Game 3 against the Detroit Pistons 116-109, reducing their playoff series deficit to 2-1 with a strong home performance led by Donovan Mitchell's 35 points.
- Mitchell and James Harden improved their offensive aggression by attacking the basket early, which helped them relax and successfully hit key 3-pointers throughout the game.
- Cleveland took control in the fourth quarter after forcing multiple turnovers from Cade Cunningham, with Harden and Mitchell sealing the victory in the final moments.
- Pistons' Cade Cunningham recorded a triple-double with 27 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists but struggled with turnovers and shooting efficiency, while Detroit's outside shooting remained poor at 36%.
- The Cavaliers' big men, Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley, contributed significantly on both ends with points, rebounds, and rim protection, limiting Detroit's scoring opportunities inside.
