The Cleveland Cavaliers hosted the Indiana Pacers on Sunday for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. Cleveland advanced to the second round after sweeping the Miami Heat in the first round.
Speaking ahead of the game, NBA on TNT analyst Shaquille O'Neal offered his thoughts on Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell. O'Neal called Mitchell one of the top players in the league today.
The four-time NBA champion issued a challenge to Donovan Mitchell, stating he needs to prove his top player status in the playoffs.
O'Neal believes that if Mitchell continues to play at his current level, the Cavaliers can reach the conference finals and the NBA finals.
"I want him to play big every game," O'Neal said. "I don't know what his average is, but I would like to see a 30-piece every night. He's capable of doing it."
O'Neal added that Mitchell is capable of taking over stretches of games to show he is the lead player for Cleveland and in the league.
The Cavaliers' potential for an NBA title run this season depends on Mitchell playing up to his capabilities, according to O'Neal.
Pressure increased on Mitchell for Sunday's series opener with teammate Darius Garland ruled out due to a toe sprain. This marks the third straight game Garland has missed.
Cleveland has no choice but to put a heavier load on Mitchell's able shoulders with Garland sidelined. O'Neal expressed confidence that Mitchell can lead the team far this season.
"If he plays the way he's been playing, he'll definitely make it to the conference finals and the finals, and possibly be an NBA champion because he's playing phenomenal right now," O'Neal declared.
