Mitchell’s Clutch Free Throws Lift Cavs Past Nuggets in 119–117 Thriller
DENVER — The Cleveland Cavaliers showed poise under pressure Monday night, and Donovan Mitchell made sure they left town with a win.
Mitchell scored 32 points and calmly knocked down two free throws with just 0.9 seconds remaining to cap a late rally as the Cavaliers edged the Denver Nuggets 119–117 in a dramatic finish.
The game appeared to be slipping away from Cleveland before a late surge flipped the momentum. Jarrett Allen threw down a key alley-oop dunk off a lob from Mitchell to cut the deficit to one, and James Harden followed with a step-back 3-pointer to tie the game at 117 with 32 seconds left.
After a defensive stop, Jamal Murray fouled Mitchell on the ensuing possession. The All-Star guard stepped to the line and delivered both free throws to seal the victory.
Mitchell also dished out 10 assists in an all-around performance, while Allen finished with 22 points and 13 rebounds. Harden added 22 points and 10 boards in his second game with Cleveland, continuing to settle into his new role with the team.
Denver had its chances. Nikola Jokić recorded another triple-double with 22 points, 14 rebounds and 11 assists, but his potential game-winning 3-point attempt at the buzzer came up short. Jamal Murray contributed 17 points and 11 assists, but the Nuggets dropped their fourth game in five outings.
The Cavs trailed by as many as 11 points in the fourth quarter before mounting their comeback, improving their recent hot streak with eight wins in their last nine games.
Up Next:
Cleveland returns home to host the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night, while Denver will stay home to face the Memphis Grizzlies.
