After another loss against the Detroit Pistons, the Cleveland Cavaliers are realizing they have a major James Harden problem on their hands.
Through the first two games of the second-round series against the Pistons, Harden’s struggles are hard to miss.
Game 2 was an opportunity for Harden to silence the critics. His Game 1 performance included seven turnovers, more than shots made. That performance followed two games with under 36.0% shooting from the field to close out the first round.
GettyCLEVELAND, OHIO – FEBRUARY 11: Donovan Mitchell #45 and James Harden #1 of the Cleveland Cavaliers celebrate during the first half against the Washington Wizards at Rocket Arena on February 11, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images)
In Game 2, Harden checked in for nearly 37 minutes. Once again, he turned the ball over more than he made shots. Four turnovers, 3-13 from the field, six rebounds, and three assists. Harden finished the game with 10 points.
The Cavaliers lost 107-97.
Donovan Mitchell Reveals What’s Next
GettyCLEVELAND, OHIO – APRIL 18: Donovan Mitchell #45 head coach Kenny Atkinson and James Harden #1 of the Cleveland Cavaliers talk during the second quarter of Game One of the Eastern Conference First Round NBA Playoffs against the Toronto Raptors at Rocket Arena on April 18, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
Being Harden’s backcourt co-star, Donovan Mitchell will have to be a key in helping Harden find his groove.
After Game 2, the star guard acknowledged what needs to be done in order to get Harden going before it’s too late.
“Just little things. Spacing, trying to get him easier looks,” Mitchell told reporters.
“Honestly, just him continuing to be in attack mode, right? He’s James Harden. He’s going to figure this out. We’ve got to do a better job around him as well, whether it’s spacing or put him in different positions. We’ll have that conversation—we’ve been having that conversation—at the end of the day, we’re going to figure it out.”
The Cavaliers Are Running Out Of Time
GettyCLEVELAND, OHIO – NOVEMBER 19: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers shoots against Clint Capela #30 of the Houston Rockets during the first half at Rocket Arena on November 19, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images)
Down 0-2 against the top-seeded Detroit Pistons, the Cavaliers are running out of time.
Losing Game 3 wouldn’t spell the end for the Cavs’ season, but it would place them in a position where no team has succeeded. The next one is a must-win, and a lot of weight will be on the shoulders of Harden and Mitchell to get it done.
Donovan Mitchell is confident that the Cavaliers have the mindset and the tools to get Harden back on track. On Saturday afternoon, we’ll see if that’s the case.