Donovan Mitchell scores 38 points, playoff-bound Cavaliers beat Pacers 117-108

Donovan Mitchell led the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 117-108 victory over the Indiana Pacers, scoring 23 of his 38 points in the second half. James Harden contributed 28 points and seven assists, while Thomas Bryant added 14 points and 10 rebounds in his first start of the season. The Cavaliers, who are playoff-bound, secured their lead in the fourth quarter and are close to clinching home-court advantage in the first round. Despite missing key players, the Pacers, who have the second-worst record in the NBA, put up a strong fight with Obi Toppin and Micah Potter scoring 21 points each. The Cavaliers are set to play the Hawks next, while the Pacers will face Minnesota. QUESTION: How might the Cavaliers’ strategy change if they continue to rest key players during the playoffs?