NBA Basketball 3h Briefing

Last updated: May 23, 2026, 8:40 PM ET

Western Conference Finals & Cavaliers Outlook

Mitchell ruled out as Oklahoma City faces a depleted backcourt for Game, with the guard nursing a right calf strain that forced him onto the bench and leaves the Thunder short‑handed against a Lakers squad that has won three of the last four matchups. Meanwhile, the Cleveland roster has leaned heavily on a singular savior amid a turbulent season, with the veteran forward emerging as the primary option in clutch moments and keeping the Cavs within striking distance of a playoff berth.