The Cleveland Cavaliers clinched the top seed in the Eastern Conference with an impressive 64-18 record this season. Under new head coach Kenny Atkinson, they led the NBA in both scoring (121.9 points per game) and offensive efficiency (121.7 rating).
As they await their first-round playoff opponent, which will be determined by the outcome of the Eastern Conference play-in games (Chicago vs. Miami, then the winner facing either Orlando or Atlanta), the team has some downtime.
During a break, Donovan Mitchell noticed a post on social media platform X from Cleveland.com reporter Chris Fedor, who mentioned how tough it was to choose a Defensive Player of the Year due to the top contender becoming ineligible. Mitchell responded directly, making it clear who he thinks deserves the honor.
“Chris you know [expletive] well it’s Evan Mobley’s award,” Mitchell wrote, adding laughing emojis.
Mobley, now in his third NBA season, averaged 9.3 rebounds, 1.6 blocks, and 0.9 steals this year. The Cavs ranked 12th in fewest points allowed and 8th in defensive rating. Mobley previously finished third in Defensive Player of the Year voting in 2022-23.
This season, the former USC standout also averaged 18.5 points per game on efficient shooting: 55.7% from the field, 37% from three-point range, and 72.5% from the free-throw line. He also made his first All-Star appearance.
Whether Mobley secures the award remains to be seen, but Mitchell’s endorsement couldn’t be clearer.