Mitchell scores 31 points as Cavaliers thrash Bucks 135-95

With Donovan Mitchell’s amazing 31-point performance, the Cleveland Cavaliers capitalized on the absence of superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo to secure their season-best sixth consecutive victory, defeating the Milwaukee Bucks 135-95 on Wednesday night.

Antetokounmpo was sidelined due to a bruised right shoulder, marking his first absence from the lineup in 29 games, the second-longest streak of his career. Although not expected to be out for an extended period, the Bucks faced a tough challenge without their two-time MVP.

The Cavaliers, despite missing two starters, showcased their resilience by limiting Milwaukee to a mere 2 points in the first six minutes, establishing a season-low for the Bucks. Georges Niang emerged as a key contributor, making an impressive 13 of 14 shots and achieving a career-high 33 points, with 20 coming in the first half.

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Cleveland, now 11-3 since losing Darius Garland to a broken jaw and Evan Mobley to knee surgery last month, demonstrated their dominance from the start, opening with a commanding 22-2 lead and maintaining control throughout the game. Jarrett Allen notched his 10th consecutive double-double with 21 points and 13 rebounds.

This game marked the first of three meetings between the Bucks and Cavaliers within nine days, with subsequent matchups scheduled for January 24 and January 26 in Milwaukee.