Nets Come Up Short Against Harden, Cavaliers

Brooklyn loses close game despite strong efforts from Porter Jr. and rookie Wolf

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Brooklyn Nets (15-45) fell to the Cleveland Cavaliers (38-24) by a score of 106-102 on Sunday, despite a valiant effort. Forward Michael Porter Jr. led the way for the Nets with 26 points and 5 rebounds, while rookie forward Danny Wolf had 23 points and 9 rebounds off the bench. The Cavaliers were paced by veteran guard James Harden's 22 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists, as well as center Jarrett Allen's 20 points and 6 rebounds.

Why it matters

The loss keeps the struggling Nets winless since the All-Star break, as they continue to search for their first victory. However, the team showed signs of improvement, particularly from young players like Porter Jr. and Wolf, providing hope for the remainder of the season.

The details

The Nets were without center Nic Claxton and rookie guard Egor Demin due to injuries, which may have contributed to the close loss. Brooklyn never trailed by more than 11 points and had one of their better efforts since returning from the break. Porter Jr. was a two-way force, making an impact on both ends of the floor, while Wolf continued his strong play off the bench.

  • The game took place on Sunday, March 2, 2026.

The players

Michael Porter Jr.

A forward for the Brooklyn Nets who led the team with 26 points and 5 rebounds in the loss.

Danny Wolf

A rookie forward for the Brooklyn Nets who had 23 points and 9 rebounds off the bench.

James Harden

A veteran guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers who had 22 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists in the win.

Jarrett Allen

A center for the Cleveland Cavaliers who had 20 points and 6 rebounds in the victory.

Grant Nelson

A player who signed a 10-day contract with the Nets and had 11 points, 4 rebounds, 1 steal and 3 blocks off the bench.

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What they’re saying

“We gave a much better effort tonight, but we just couldn't get over the hump. We'll keep working to get that first win after the break.”

— Michael Porter Jr., Nets Forward (usatoday.com)

What’s next

The Nets will look to earn their first win since the All-Star break when they host the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday, March 5th.

The takeaway

Despite the loss, the Nets showed signs of progress, particularly from young players like Michael Porter Jr. and Danny Wolf. If they can build on these performances, they may be able to turn their season around in the final stretch.