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Cavaliers Beat Bucks 118-106 as Mitchell Drops 37 Points, Antetokounmpo Leaves with Injury

published : Nov, 20 2025

Cavaliers Beat Bucks 118-106 as Mitchell Drops 37 Points, Antetokounmpo Leaves with Injury

The Cleveland Cavaliers didn’t just beat the Milwaukee Bucks—they sent a message. On Monday, November 17, 2025, at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio, Donovan Mitchell exploded for 37 points, leading his team to a 118-106 victory that extended Cleveland’s dominance over Milwaukee to seven straight wins. The twist? Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks’ two-time MVP, left the game in the third quarter with a right ankle sprain, casting a shadow over what was already a tough night for the visitors.

From Blowout to Breakthrough

It looked like another Bucks romp early. With three minutes left in the first quarter, Milwaukee led 30-16. Fans in Cleveland were quiet. The crowd, usually electric, felt like it was holding its breath. But then something shifted. Donovan Mitchell started attacking the rim—not just shooting, but drawing fouls, drawing help, and finding open teammates. By halftime, the Cavs had cut the deficit to just two points. The momentum didn’t stop there.

Down 88-88 early in the fourth, Cleveland went on a 12-3 run that turned the game into a statement. Evan Mobley anchored the defense, swatting two shots and grabbing seven rebounds in the final six minutes. Larry Nance Jr., who came off the bench late, hit a clutch three-pointer that made it 105-91. The Bucks never recovered. Their fourth-quarter total? Just 18 points. That’s not a collapse—it’s a disintegration.

Giannis’ Exit Changes Everything

The injury to Giannis Antetokounmpo is the real story here. He went down late in the third after landing awkwardly on a drive to the basket. He didn’t make contact with anyone—just twisted his ankle trying to absorb contact from Mobley. He limped off the court, visibly frustrated, and didn’t return. The Bucks’ bench erupted in concern. The crowd, for a moment, fell silent. This isn’t just a missed game. It’s a potential season-altering moment.

Antetokounmpo has played 14 of Milwaukee’s 15 games this season. He’s averaging 28.7 points and 11.4 rebounds. Without him, the Bucks’ offense stalls. Their bench—led by AJ Green and Bobby Portis—can score, but they can’t create the same gravity on the floor. The Bucks are now 3-4 on the road. Their playoff positioning? In jeopardy.

Cleveland’s Quiet Rise

Cleveland’s Quiet Rise

Here’s the thing: nobody’s talking about how good the Cavaliers have become. They’re not in the headlines like the Celtics or the Nuggets. But since March 2024, they’re 19-4 against Central Division opponents. That’s not luck. That’s discipline. Mitchell is averaging 29.3 points this month. Mobley is a defensive anchor. And Cole Anthony, the former Orlando guard, has become a sneaky-playmaker off the bench.

They’re not flashy. No memes. No viral dunks. Just consistent, smart basketball. And it’s working. They’ve won seven straight over Milwaukee—a streak that began when the Bucks were still considered Eastern Conference favorites. Now? The Cavs are the ones setting the pace.

What’s Next? Trail Blazers, Suns, and the Ripple Effect

While Cleveland prepares to host the Houston Rockets on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, the Portland Trail Blazers faced the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday night in a game that drew over 5,000 views on YouTube highlights. Portland, with its official broadcasts on Root Sports Northwest, continues to build a loyal fanbase through its mobile app and social channels—Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook—all buzzing with game-day energy.

Looking ahead, the Suns’ schedule reveals a tough stretch: home against the Cavs on January 30, 2026, and a trip to Portland on February 3. That’s a rematch waiting to happen. And if Antetokounmpo isn’t fully healthy by then? The Eastern Conference standings could look very different by February.

Why This Matters

Why This Matters

This isn’t just another win in November. It’s a turning point. The Cavaliers are proving they’re not just a team with a star guard—they’re a complete, deep, and disciplined unit. Meanwhile, the Bucks’ injury crisis raises real questions about their championship hopes. If Antetokounmpo misses even two weeks, Milwaukee could drop out of the top four. And in a conference where every half-game matters, that’s catastrophic.

Meanwhile, Cleveland’s record improves to 13-6. They’re not just beating the Bucks—they’re building a legacy. And for the first time in years, the NBA’s Central Division belongs to them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How serious is Giannis Antetokounmpo’s injury?

The Bucks officially listed Giannis Antetokounmpo’s injury as a right ankle sprain, with no timetable for return as of November 18, 2025. Early reports suggest he’s expected to miss at least 7–10 days, which would sideline him for games against the 76ers, Pacers, and possibly the Nets. Given his history of ankle issues, the team is being cautious—this isn’t just about one game, but his long-term health.

What does this win mean for Cleveland’s playoff chances?

With a 19-4 record against Central Division teams since March 2024, the Cavaliers are the clear top dog in the division. Their 13-6 overall record puts them in the top five of the Eastern Conference. A win over Houston on Wednesday could push them into the top three. They’re no longer a dark horse—they’re a legitimate contender, especially with Mitchell’s scoring and Mobley’s defense clicking.

Who stepped up for Cleveland besides Donovan Mitchell?

Evan Mobley was crucial, finishing with 14 points, 11 rebounds, and 4 blocks. Larry Nance Jr. added 12 points off the bench, including a key three-pointer late. Cole Anthony, who played 22 minutes, chipped in 9 points and 5 assists, showing improved decision-making. The Cavs’ bench outscored Milwaukee’s 38-22, a massive advantage that sealed the game.

How has the Cavs-Bucks rivalry changed over the past year?

A year ago, Milwaukee dominated this matchup, winning 4 of the last 5 games. But since March 2024, Cleveland has won seven straight, including three this season. The shift is clear: the Cavs have closed the talent gap, improved their defense, and now have the mental edge. Antetokounmpo’s injury only accelerates the change in power dynamics within the division.

When do the Suns and Cavaliers play next?

The Phoenix Suns and Cleveland Cavaliers are scheduled to meet on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 6:00 PM at the Footprint Center in Phoenix. That game could be a Western Conference vs. Eastern Conference showdown with major playoff implications, especially if Antetokounmpo is still out and the Suns are fighting for seeding.

Where can fans watch Trail Blazers games?

Portland Trail Blazers games are broadcast locally on Root Sports Northwest. Nationally, they appear on NBA TV and ESPN. Fans can stream all games via NBA League Pass, and the team’s official app offers live audio, stats, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. Single-game tickets are available through nba.com/blazers/single-game-tickets.

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Darius Winthrop

Darius Winthrop

Hello, my name is Darius Winthrop and I am an automobile expert with years of experience in the industry. I have a deep passion for cars, which has led me to write extensively about the latest models, trends, and innovations. My expertise in the field allows me to provide insightful analysis and commentary that engages a wide audience. When I'm not behind the wheel or at my desk writing, you can find me sketching cars, playing chess or visiting auto shows and events to stay up-to-date on the newest developments. I live in Wellington, New Zealand with my wife, Angela and our children, Isaiah and Safira. We have a tortoise named Sheldon and a parrot called Ralph. My ultimate goal is to share my passion for automobiles with others and help them make informed decisions about their next vehicle.

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