The first-round playoff series between the Orlando Magic and Cleveland Cavaliers was an entertaining one that reached its conclusion in the final game on Sunday, unlike most of the other fixtures. The two teams had nail-biting moments throughout the series, but the Cavs took the upper hand in Game 7 with a 106-94 win. However, Magic’s Paolo Banchero impressed the hoop lovers in his first post-season appearance, which includes opponent Donovan Mitchell.
During a post-game interview, the Magic forward revealed, “We had a moment when the clock was running down and he had the ball. He told me he had a lot of respect for me. And we shared words.” The heartwarming exchange between the two players shows the kind of sportsmanship that exists beyond the basketball courts, although they had a friendly connection before Banchero started his NBA career.
Banchero averaged 27 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 4 assists in the playoffs, which makes one wonder about the vast potential the youngster would unveil in the upcoming seasons.
There will undoubtedly be several duels between Mitchell and Banchero in the future, but in this one, the former outdueled the latter.
Donovan Mitchell Outduels Paolo Banchero
Paolo Banchero put up a great show in the deciding game by scoring 24 points for the Magic in the opening half, giving a formidable challenge to the Cavs’ defense, who were trailing by 18 points. To answer them back, Cleveland guard Donovan Mitchell unleashed his beasts and took the offense on his shoulders.
Banchero finished the night with a team-high 38 points and grabbed 16 rebounds, whereas Mitchell recorded a game-high 39 points, coupled with 9 rebounds and 5 assists. The 5-time All-Star guard shot 11 of his 27 attempts on target from the floor along with two 3-pointers and snatched the win from the Magic.
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The Cavaliers will continue their post-season journey in the next stage, the Eastern Conference semifinals on Tuesday against the Boston Celtics, where Mitchell will get more opportunities to show his magic.
