CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Cavaliers picked up another win against the Milwaukee Bucks, making it seven straight against their Eastern Conference opponent. This is Cleveland’s second straight win overall
and they improve to 10-5 this season.
Grades are based on our expectations for each player.
Donovan Mitchell
37 points, 7 assists, 5 rebounds
Mitchell carried the Cavaliers’ offense through a slow start to this one. His on-ball creation has been a luxury that has allowed the Cavs to win games early in the season despite some growing pains across the roster.
Grade: A+
De’Andre Hunter
11 points, 1 assist, 5 rebounds
Hunter played his usual game tonight. He could have shot better, but he did a good job of chipping in on the glass. This wasn’t anything special, but it was enough for a Cavs win.
Grade: B–
Evan Mobley
14 points, 6 assists, 6 rebounds
Fans are probably ready for the growing pains to subside. That didn’t happen tonight. Mobley had another awkward performance, turning it over six times and shooting 4-9 from the floor. It wasn’t the worst game he’s played, but it was certainly underwhelming.
Mobley did complete some clean passes for six assists, but his general indecisiveness has held him back.
Grade: C-
Support us and rep Evan Mobley with Homage!
We’ve partnered with Homage to help provide Cavs fans with the best gear. Anything bought from the links below helps support Fear the Sword while also allowing you to rep the Cavs. You can also shop all Homage Cavs gear HERE.
Sam Merrill
20 points, 0 assists, 5 rebounds
Merrill left this game for a brief moment in the first half with what appeared to be a hand injury. He later returned and finished the game shooting 6-9 from the three-point line. I guess his hand felt fine.
Grade: A+
Jarrett Allen
12 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists
Allen was active in the minutes he played, securing deep seals and catching the ball with an advantage. He was phased out of the rotation as the game went on, something that’s become a trend to start the season. Allen played only 24 minutes tonight.
Grade: A-
Lonzo Ball
6 points, 5 assists, 5 rebounds
Ball pushed the tempo and kept the rock moving. He might have hit the side of the backboard on a corner three, but other than that, he was solid.
Grade: A-
Craig Porter Jr.
11 points, 0 assists, 1 rebound
Porter’s poster dunk over Ryan Rollins in the third quarter was the play of the night. He turned in a good game overall as he helped Cleveland on both sides of the ball.
Grade: A+
Thomas Bryant
0 points, 0 assists, 2 rebounds
Bryant entered this game and made an instant impact. He plays with a tone that few players on the roster are capable of. He’s intense, physical, and doesn’t let anyone hit him first.
Grade: A+
Dean Wade
4 points, 2 assists, 4 rebounds
Wade hit a three-pointer just moments after entering the game, and then only took two more shots the rest of the way. One of which was a great cut from the wing for a thunderous dunk. He also did a fine job defensively.
Grade: B+
Nae’Qwan Tomlin
2 points, 1 assist, 2 rebounds
The Cavs once again turned to Tomlin for some extra energy tonight. It seems the two-way prospect has momentarily replaced Larry Nance Jr. in the rotation. Tomlin wasn’t as effective tonight as he has been in recent games, but it’s clear the Cavs are intrigued by what he can offer.
Grade: A-
