Donovan Mitchell exploded for 21 points in the third quarter and 39 in the second half, tying an NBA record set by Sleepy Floyd in 1987. Mitchell finished Game 4 with 43 points on 26-of-13 shooting, along with 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal, leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 112-103 victory over the Detroit Pistons, evening the series at 2-2.
The pivotal Game 5 will be played in Detroit, but the momentum has clearly shifted to Cleveland. The Eastern Conference Finals are within reach for the Cavaliers.
James Harden has proven his worth in the last two games, shooting 8-of-14 for 19 points and 7 assists in Game 3, and 5-of-14 for 24 points and 11 assists in Game 4. In particular, Harden’s clutch scoring in Game 3 turned back the clock, effectively deciding the outcome.
Meanwhile, in the highly anticipated matchup, the Los Angeles Lakers, facing elimination, showed fierce resistance in Game 4, trailing only 49-45 at halftime against the Oklahoma City Thunder. However, LeBron James injured his right ankle after stepping on Jaxson Hayes’ foot at the end of the first half, limping back to the locker room. He returned for the second half, choosing to fight alongside his team until the end, despite becoming an unrestricted free agent this summer.
The Lakers managed to outscore the Thunder 39-31 in the third quarter, taking the lead. Every player seemed determined to avoid a sweep at home. Ultimately, the defending champion Thunder proved too strong, winning 115-110 and completing a 4-0 series sweep to advance to the Western Conference Finals, where they await the winner of the Spurs (2) vs. Timberwolves (2) series.
Lakers stats: LeBron James had 24 points and 12 rebounds; Rui Hachimura contributed 25 points and 5 rebounds; Austin Reaves posted 27 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists but also 8 turnovers.
Thunder stats: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 35 points and dished 8 assists; Mitchell added 28 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists with 4 steals.
Thank you, LeBron. This might have been your last game in a Lakers uniform after eight seasons. At 41, you have already achieved legendary status, and “the longest river in NBA history” is a fitting title.
