Cavs news: Donovan Mitchell gets real on LeBron James Cavaliers comparisons

Donovan Mitchell discussed leading the Cleveland Cavaliers' new era alongside Darius Garland and Evan Mobley, contrasting it with the LeBron James and Kyrie Irving-led 2016 championship team. Following the Cavs' disappointing playoff exit, Mitchell reflected on the 2024-25 season's highs and subsequent letdown, emphasizing fundamental differences in team identity between the two eras.

Mitchell explicitly stated the current roster operates distinctly from the 2016 squad, highlighting collective contributions from Mobley, Garland, Max Strus, Jarrett Allen, and the entire roster. He acknowledged the city's reverence for the championship legacy—symbolized by parade imagery—but stressed the team's determination to forge their own path while respecting past achievements.

The All-Star guard recognized inevitable comparisons due to the 2016 team being Cleveland's sole title winner, yet firmly asserted his comfort in distinguishing the eras: "That was that team, and we are different."

Mitchell expressed devastation over their playoff loss to the Indiana Pacers despite a dominant regular season. The Cavs led the East with 64 wins, including a franchise-record 16-game streak, but injuries derailed their postseason. Mitchell described feeling a deep Finals run was destined, stating, "In my mind, it was like this is supposed to [happen]," while clarifying the team never took success for granted.

Projecting forward, the Cavaliers enter the 2025-26 season as odds-on favorites to win the Eastern Conference.