Fans react to Donovan Mitchell being drug tested after 71-point career performance

Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell made history last night. He put up 71 points to lead his team to an overtime win against the Chicago Bulls. After his incredible performance, Mitchell tweeted that the league immediately drug tested him. Fans had a lot to say about it on social media.

Mitchell became just the third player in the last 25 years to score 70 or more points in a game. He benefitted from getting points at the charity stripe, but also made some tough shots. The 6-foot-1 guard was two rebounds shy of a 70-point triple-double.

Cavaliers center Robin Lopez posted a hilarious tweet about his contributions to Mitchell's performance. Lopez let his followers know that he and Mitchell combined to score 72 points. He contributed just one of those points. Mitchell quoted Lopez's tweet and revealed that the league drug tested him this morning.

Fans couldn't help but share their thoughts on why the league randomly tested the All-Star for performance-enhancing drugs.

We scoured Twitter to find the most memorable reactions from fans on Mitchell being drug tested. Here are some of the best fan reactions:

Regardless of the drug test, it was incredible to watch Mitchell lead his team to victory. With the NBA having so many elite scorers, it wouldn't be surprising if another player breaks out and outshines the Cavs' guard.

Mitchell and the Cavs will try to capitalize on their momentum. They face the Phoenix Suns tomorrow night at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse in Cleveland. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00pm/ET.

Also read: Kyrie Irving reveals Donovan Mitchell was "locked in" while playing Call of Duty before 71-point masterclass

What other records did Donovan Mitchell break last night?

Donovan Mitchell made history with his record-setting performance. Let's take a look at the other records he set with his 71-point outburst.

First player to record 70 points and 10 assists

Mitchell outshined all of the other great scoring performances this season. Not only did he surpass the 70-point mark, but he also dished out 11 assists. It made his scoring eruption even more impactful.

Mitchell was close to recording a triple-double. He finished the game with eight rebounds. He would've beaten Luka Doncic's record for most points recorded in a triple-double. The Dallas Mavericks star posted 60 points, 21 rebounds and 10 assists in a game agains the New York Knicks on December 27.

Mitchell has outdone LeBron James and Kyrie Irving

When looking at the best performances in Cavaliers history, Mitchell is in a league of his own. LeBron James and Kyrie Irving both had separate 57-point performances while playing in Cleveland. But Mitchell's 71-point performance was miles ahead of what they accomplished.

Mitchell was truly in the zone against Chicago. His performance will always be remembered.

About the author

Reign Amurao specializes in basketball at Sportskeeda, bringing 3 years of experience to his role and a Bachelor's Degree in Communication.

A fervent supporter of the Phoenix Suns, Reign was hooked to their electrifying "Seven-Seconds-Or-Less" offense, which epitomizes high-paced and high-intensity basketball. For Reign, Steve Nash is the ultimate floor general, and he believes Boris Diaw could've been the next Magic Johnson if he had a bit more discipline.

From Reign's perspective, Anthony Edwards is a 90s player stuck in modern times, and Gregg Popovich is an ultimate winner with unparalleled success and leadership in the sport.

Reign's expertise lies in NBA history, particularly the significant moments and trends of the 2000s and 2010s. He prioritizes in-depth research using only credible sources to maintain accuracy in his articles, and avoids misleading topics.

Beyond basketball, Reign enjoys gaming with friends and watches comedy shows and films.

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