The Cavaliers' All-Star and top scorer, Donovan Mitchell, is sidelined for at least three more matches as a result of a Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatment on his left knee for a bone bruise, the team confirmed on Monday. This prognosis is indeed an important update for daily fantasy players, as the previously absent Mitchell's return to the Cavaliers line-up has been delayed.
Mitchell, who scored an average of 28 points per game with 6.2 assists and maintained a 60.4 true shooting percentage, has been instrumental in the Cavaliers' offense this season which performs 4.4 points per 100 possessions better with him on the court. His exceptional form this season means Mitchell is in the running for a potential All-NBA spot.
However, Mitchell has already sat out 13 games this season, and the next three absences will raise this to 16. According to the new Collective Bargaining Agreement, players that miss 18 games are ineligible for postseason accolades. Although Mitchell and the Cavaliers' primary focus would be gearing up for a potential postseason run, the relevance of awards eligibility is not dismissed.
As a result of Mitchell's absence, Isaac Okoro's presence is anticipated to rise in the coming games, adding more interest for daily fantasy selections.