Cavs’ Donovan Mitchell: Can’t be satisfied with advancing

The Cavs needed seven games to survive Toronto and another seven to take down the top-seeded Pistons. Mitchell credited the group’s force, trust, and mental toughness for pushing them through.

“We won this Game 7 with just our force,” he said. “We wanted it more, playing together as a group and trusting each other. I think that’s what it’s going to take to keep going.”

He admitted the pressure of nearly dropping both series tested him, referencing past blown leads in Utah, but said staying locked in with this group made the difference.

Now comes the real test: A well-rested Knicks squad waiting at the Garden. Mitchell, who grew up in the New York area, knows exactly what’s coming.

“I know the city is going to be on fire,” he said. “It’s going to be a lot of fun. … They’re a really good team. So, I’m going to stay in my house, which is great. But at the end of the day, we’re here to do a job and get to win.”

On stopping Jalen Brunson: “No one guy can stop him. It’s going to be a group effort.”

Mitchell also addressed the quick turnaround and the danger of satisfaction setting in.

“The biggest challenge is the mental,” he said. “Not allowing yourself to be satisfied with advancing.”

He praised the Cavs’ progress since his arrival and downplayed outside noise about his partnership with James Harden.

“For myself and him, the job is not done,” he said. “It’s great. Smiles. Fantastic. But in 12 hours, it’s over with.”

Finally, one of the most personal moments came when Mitchell described spotting fiancée Coco Jones courtside during the Game 7 grind.

“She’s a big reason why I am where I am today,” he said. “I love that girl to death, and it’s just one of those things where she’s just home.”