Donovan Mitchell's Heroics Propel Cavaliers Against Hornets

On December 12, 2025, the Charlotte Hornets faced a challenging matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers, who were propelled by an extraordinary performance from Donovan Mitchell. Mitchell scored 35 points in the second half and finished with a season-high 48 points, leading the Cavaliers to a 130-126 victory over the Washington Wizards just before their game against Charlotte.

The Cavaliers were eager to avoid relying on Mitchell's heroics again, as he had carried the team with a remarkable fourth quarter where he scored 24 points. The Hornets, fresh off a 129-126 loss to the Chicago Bulls, were without key players LaMelo Ball, Collin Sexton, and Tre Mann.

Rookie small forward Kon Knueppel had a standout game with a season-best 33 points, but Charlotte struggled defensively, particularly in the closing moments. Despite taking a 113-112 lead late in the game, the Hornets ultimately fell to the Bulls after Knueppel's last-second three-point attempt missed.

The Hornets have now lost two consecutive games and four of their last five, placing them at 5-17 since October 28. Coach Kenny Atkinson emphasized the need for improvement in defending elite players like Mitchell as they prepare for the upcoming clash against the Cavaliers.