Donovan Mitchell scored 27 of his game-high 35 points in the first half, helping the Cleveland Cavaliers to defeat the Indiana Pacers 127-117 in Indianapolis on Tuesday.

Mitchell has taken on a slightly different role this season, willingly taking a step back to purposely elevate and empower his younger teammates — Darius Garland and Evan Mobley.

In a bounce-back victory over the Pacers, the Cavs were led by Donovan Mitchell, who put the team on his back.

NBA legend-turned-TNT analyst Shaquille O'Neal has been critical of Cleveland Cavaliers star shooting guard Donovan Mitchell since his time with the Utah Jazz.

INDIANAPOLIS -- All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell scored 35 points and grabbed ... avenging Cleveland's loss to Indiana on Sunday and snapping the Pacers' six-game winning streak.

Jan 14, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland (10) dribbles the ball while Indiana Pacers guard Ben Sheppard (26) defends in the first half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images / Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Akron Zips coverage:UA great Enrique Freeman feels love from Pacers during high school hoops jersey retirement Donovan Mitchell makes 3-pointer, Cavs lose challenge and Cleveland trails Indiana ...

The NBA-leading Cleveland Cavaliers fell in Sunday's home game against the Indiana Pacers with a chance to extend their winning streak to 13.

Donovan Mitchell scored 27 of his game-high 35 points in the first half, helping the Cleveland Cavaliers to defeat the Indiana Pacers 127-117 in Indianapolis on Tuesday. Darius Garland added 24 points and seven assists, while Evan Mobley had 22 points ...

The Cleveland Cavaliers haven’t needed Donovan Mitchell to be the Donovan Mitchell of old this season. At least, not that often. He hasn’t been as aggressive as he’s usually been. Unfortunately, he hasn’t been as efficient,

Pascal Siakam scored 23 points and Bennedict Mathurin 19 for the Pacers, who had their six-game winning streak halted. Myles Turned added 17 points. The Cavaliers led 82-77 in the third quarter before going on a 10-0 run that included 3-pointers by Max Strus, Georges Niang and Mobley. Cleveland led 100-89 after three periods.

It's Mitchell's sixth straight All-Star appearance and second career starting nod, both of which have come with the Cavs.