Player Grades: Cavs at Hornets – Donovan Mitchell plays his 100th 30+ point game as a Cavalier in a thrilling 115-110 victory.
The Cleveland Cavaliers extended their winning streak to seven games after a hard-fought battle against the Charlotte Hornets. Here’s how each player performed according to our expectations.
Star performances show the way
Donovan Mitchell – Grade: A–
Donovan Mitchell played his 100th game with over 30 points as a Cavalier despite a slow start. He opened the game making just 4 of 15 hits from the field. However, he caught fire when Cleveland needed him most. As a result, he shot 5 of 8 from the field. He finished the game with 32 points, 4 assists and 3 rebounds. His clutch scoring proved crucial to the narrow victory.
James Harden – Grade: B+
James Harden continues to elevate the Cavaliers’ offense. He scored 18 points and 8 assists with remarkable efficiency. The offense feels stronger when he’s in charge. However, he could have contributed more in the forums. Additionally, sharper off-ball defense would further boost his grade.
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Jarrett Allen – Grade: A+
Jarrett Allen delivered a dominant performance. He scored 26 points and 14 rebounds while relentlessly attacking the team. The Hornets simply couldn’t stop him. If he hadn’t grabbed 14 rebounds, Cleveland would have lost this game. It has been a joy to watch his continued aggression for weeks.
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Supporting cast contributions
Dennis Schroder – Grade: A-
Schröder continues to be a defensive pest for opponents. He got two big steals in the second half. As a result, he gives the Cavs bench an edge that it has been missing all season. His energy and tenacity are invaluable.
Sam Merrill – Grade: B+
Merrill had more success tonight than in recent games. He hit 2 of 4 from distance. He also executed a beautiful backdoor cut at the start of the first half. His shot remains a valuable weapon even off the bench.
Dean Wade – Grade: A+
Wade hasn’t missed a single shot since returning from the All-Star break. He hit consecutive three-pointers in the fourth quarter. These clutch shots helped seal the win for Cleveland. His timely goal proved crucial.
Thomas Bryant – Grade: B-
Bryant delivered a mixed performance tonight. His blocking in the third quarter was absolutely electrifying. However, at times he seemed to be a step too slow. This fast-paced duel revealed some defensive limitations.
Defensive specialists shine
Keon Ellis – Grade: A–
Ellis continues to amaze with his defensive instincts. I’m convinced he can clone himself and appear in multiple places at once. That’s the only explanation for some of his defensive plays. He contributed 4 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists. His two steals underline his impact on this goal.
Jaylon Tyson – Grade: B-
Tyson’s role has changed significantly since Harden’s arrival. He just doesn’t get as many offensive chances now. Therefore, we need to adjust our valuation expectations accordingly. However, Cleveland could have used a better shot from him tonight.
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Game summary and takeaways
The game between the Cavs and Hornets showed Cleveland’s resilience. Despite their star’s slow start, they found ways to win. The winning streak is now seven games. This is their longest winning streak of the season.
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Important statistics that decided the game
- Donovan Mitchell’s 100th 30-point game as a Cavalier
- Jarrett Allen’s dominant double-double
- Bank contributions from Schroder and Merrill
- Dean Wade shoots the ball in the fourth quarter
Sources:
This player grades article is based on the official NBA box score and game stats from the Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Charlotte Hornets game.
Follow the Cavaliers: NBA.com Cavs page
Official statistics: ESPN game recap
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