Cavs' Schroder Emphasizes Team Unity Over Basketball

Veteran guard Dennis Schroder credits team chemistry as key to Cleveland's success since joining the squad.

Mar. 1, 2026 at 9:23pm

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In an exclusive interview, Cleveland Cavaliers guard Dennis Schroder spoke about the team's quickly-established momentum since his arrival, along with fellow newcomers Keon Ellis and James Harden. Schroder emphasized the importance of team unity and chemistry over just basketball, saying the Cavs' focus on coming together as a group will be crucial, especially in the playoffs.

Why it matters

The Cavaliers have been one of the surprise teams in the NBA this season, and Schroder's comments highlight the team's strong locker room culture as a key factor in their success. As the team makes a push for the playoffs, maintaining that unity and chemistry could be the difference-maker.

The details

Schroder told ClutchPoints that the Cavs' new additions have helped the team understand the task at hand, bringing a level of professionalism that has rubbed off on the rest of the squad. Head coach Kenny Atkinson praised the team's approach coming out of the All-Star break, noting that the players worked hard during their 'working vacation' to stay ready. Schroder and fellow newcomer Keon Ellis have provided a defensive spark off the bench, with Atkinson highlighting their ability to change the look of the team with their speed and aggressiveness.

  • The Cavaliers are 5-0 since Schroder joined the team.
  • The Cavs blew out the Brooklyn Nets 112-84 in their first game back from the All-Star break.

The players

Dennis Schroder

A 13-year NBA veteran who was recently traded to the Cavaliers, Schroder has made an immediate impact with his defensive intensity and ability to change the pace of the game off the bench.

Keon Ellis

A rookie forward who was also acquired in the trade with the Sacramento Kings, Ellis has impressed with his defensive versatility, including a standout performance against the Nets with 3 blocks.

Donovan Mitchell

The Cavaliers' All-Star guard, who has noticed the increased professionalism and focus from the team's new additions.

Kenny Atkinson

The Cavaliers' head coach, who praised the team's approach coming out of the All-Star break and the impact of the new players.

Evan Mobley

The Cavaliers' young star big man, who highlighted the defensive impact of Schroder and Ellis in disrupting opposing offenses.

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What they’re saying

“We just want to get to our peak in April. I think that's where it matters the most, and whatever we have to do, there's steps. We have to do it every single day. Everybody's got to buy in, and that's what makes it so special right now that we're playing at such a high level.”

— Dennis Schroder (ClutchPoints)

“When you bring those guys in, they bring a level of professionalism that they've been in the league. That's what I've been around since I was in the league, and that's kind of what it is. Just understanding, 'Hey, we got a 5-in-7 coming up. Yeah, we are new and all that, but we also come in there and say, 'Hey, it's time to go.'”

— Donovan Mitchell, Cavaliers Guard (ClutchPoints)

“I think we handled that professionally. I know guys worked; normally, it's take three, four, five days off. This is more like… I called it a working vacation. We need to keep our bodies moving, make sure we got in the gym. I think most of the guys did that. That's part of a professional approach. But also, like, man, we've got some catching up to do here, and we've got a sprint here at the end. So this is a good start, good first game out of the box.”

— Kenny Atkinson, Cavaliers Head Coach (ClutchPoints)

What’s next

The Cavaliers will look to continue their strong play as they face a busy stretch of 5 games in 7 days coming out of the All-Star break.

The takeaway

Schroder's emphasis on team unity and chemistry over just basketball highlights the Cavaliers' holistic approach to building a championship contender. By prioritizing their relationships and commitment to one another, the Cavs have established a strong foundation that could pay dividends as they make a push for the playoffs.