LeBron James’s legacy in Cleveland remains untouchable, a symbol of championship glory and devotion for the Cavaliers’ fan base. Donovan Mitchell understands that weight and is determined to lead the franchise back to that elite level, setting clear goals for the upcoming season.
At 29, the All-Star guard has been a cornerstone for Cleveland since joining the team in 2022, earning three All-Star selections and a spot on last season’s All-NBA First Team. Now, Mitchell is ready to take his leadership and performance to the next level in pursuit of his own place among Cavaliers greats.
What Donovan Mitchell must do to reach LeBron James’s level
Donovan Mitchell is preparing for his fourth season with the Cleveland Cavaliers, as the team gets ready to open its 2025-26 campaign on October 22 at Madison Square Garden against the New York Knicks. The Cavaliers have been sharpening their rhythm during preseason play, with Mitchell once again taking the spotlight as the leader of the roster.
During this period, the 29-year-old guard joined The Network Podcast with Rich Kleiman, where he opened up about his mindset heading into the season and made a bold statement about his ambitions. Mitchell admitted he knows exactly what it will take to be considered in the same class as Cavaliers legend LeBron James.
“The only way I can be seen in that group,” Mitchell said, “is by reaching postseason success. I feel like I’m 1,000%. But for me to be perceived in that space, I’ve got to get to the conference finals, got to get to the Finals, honestly, just past the second round.” His comments reflect a clear awareness of the expectations that come with being the franchise star in Cleveland.
Mitchell also sent a firm message about his motivation and work ethic for the season ahead. “I’m gonna go out there and work my butt off every day, not just for the people, but for myself,” he said, making it clear that his focus is fully on leading the Cavaliers to the NBA Finals.
Mitchell on the Cavaliers’ mentality: a winning franchise
Donovan Mitchell is determined to take the Cleveland Cavaliers to the next level, a step he believes the team is already prepared to make. The All-Star guard recognizes the visible growth within the roster and the organization, and he’s eager to turn that progress into consistent success across the league.
Speaking about the team’s evolving culture, Mitchell highlighted how the Cavaliers’ recent achievements have created a ripple effect throughout the organization. “There are so many different guys on our staff who’ve left to pursue other jobs because people see what we’re building here,” Mitchell said. “They’re like, ‘Oh, the Cavs won, we want to be part of that winning environment.'”
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