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Donovan Mitchell achieves feat matched only by LeBron James and Stephen Curry

Originally posted on HITC | By Aaditya Krishnamurthy | Last updated Dec 2, 2025 12:20 PM ET

Donovan Mitchell has opened the season in outstanding form for the Cleveland Cavaliers, putting up numbers that are catching everyone’s attention.

The Cleveland Cavaliers haven’t matched last season’s dominance, opening the campaign at 13–9, but Donovan Mitchell has been nothing short of spectacular. His performances have kept Cleveland competitive and firmly in the Eastern Conference race.

Mitchell has also embraced a leadership role, praising the growth of young players like Jaylon Tyson. But despite sharing the spotlight, it’s his own production — the best the franchise has seen since LeBron James — that has elevated the Cavaliers.

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Mitchell joins exclusive company with Stephen Curry and LeBron James

Mitchell delivered another outstanding outing against the Indiana Pacers, recording 43 points, nine rebounds and six assists. The performance pushed him into rare statistical territory.

He is now only the second player in NBA history — alongside Stephen Curry — to average 30 points per game on 50% shooting with 80 or more three-pointers in their first 20 games of a season.

Mitchell also tied LeBron James as the only players in Cavaliers history to average 30 points over their first 20 games. James achieved the feat during the 2006–07 campaign. Matching records held by two all-time greats underscores just how impactful Mitchell has been in Cleveland.

Donovan Mitchell’s exceptional start to the 2025–26 season

Mitchell has been indispensable for head coach Kenny Atkinson, carrying the offense and delivering elite efficiency. Through 20 games, his numbers highlight an MVP-level start:

30.6 points per game
50.8% shooting from the field
39.1% from three
5.0 rebounds and 5.5 assists per game
1.4 steals per game

Cleveland’s early inconsistencies have begun to fade as the team rounds into form, and Mitchell’s level of play is the driving force behind their turnaround. If the Cavaliers hope to contend deep into the season, capitalizing on Mitchell’s historic start will be essential.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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