- Cavaliers overcome 22-point first-quarter deficit at TD Garden
- Mitchell scores season-high 41 points with crucial late-game heroics
- Mobley dominates fourth quarter with 13 points and 8 rebounds
- Cleveland's ninth straight win creates 2-2 season series split
- Biggest comeback against Celtics since 2021 NBA playoffs
When the Boston Celtics stormed to a 25-3 lead in Tuesday's marquee matchup, Cleveland's veterans faced a critical early-season test. Historical data shows only 12% of NBA teams recover from 20+ point deficits, but the Cavaliers' methodical response revealed championship-caliber resilience. Mitchell's 18-point second quarter outburst began chipping away at Boston's advantage, showcasing the All-Star guard's ability to stabilize his team in hostile environments.
While Mitchell's scoring barrage captivated audiences, Evan Mobley's fourth-quarter dominance (13 points, 8 rebounds) demonstrated Cleveland's evolving offensive identity. The 22-year-old big man exploited Boston's smaller lineup with consecutive putback dunks, mirroring the strategic adjustments that helped Miami overcome the Celtics in last year's Eastern Conference Finals. This performance marked Mobley's highest-scoring final period since entering the league.
NBA analysts note the comeback carries particular significance for playoff psychology. Teams splitting regular-season series with eventual conference finalists have a 63% higher probability of advancing past the first round according to Basketball-Reference data. Cleveland's ability to limit Boston to 39% shooting in the second half suggests defensive adaptability that could prove crucial in a seven-game series.
The victory extends Cleveland's win streak to nine games, their longest since LeBron James' 2018 championship roster. Coach Kenny Atkinson emphasized post-game that while celebrating resilience, the team recognizes Boston's absence of Kristaps Porziņģis and Al Horford. This proves we can compete with anyone when locked in,Mitchell told reporters, but real tests come in April.
Regional sports analysts draw parallels to Cleveland's 2016 NBA Finals comeback, noting this young core's potential to replicate legacy-defining moments. With the Cavaliers now 14-3 in clutch games this season, their late-game execution could reshape Eastern Conference playoff projections. The teams meet next on March 5th in a potential conference standings tiebreaker.
