Cleveland Cavaliers Look to Maintain Momentum Against Brooklyn Nets

Cavs hope to build on five-game winning streak after All-Star break

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Cleveland Cavaliers come out of the All-Star break riding a five-game winning streak and looking to continue their strong play against the struggling Brooklyn Nets. The addition of James Harden has helped the Cavs rise to a top-4 spot in the Eastern Conference, but they face questions about maintaining momentum after the break. Donovan Mitchell's performance after a busy All-Star weekend will be key, as the Cavs aim to execute and build chemistry with their new-look roster.

Why it matters

The Cavaliers have made a significant midseason shift by acquiring James Harden, and how they are able to integrate him and keep their momentum going will be crucial as they aim to solidify a top playoff position in the East. The Nets, meanwhile, have struggled mightily this season and will be looking to pull off an upset against the surging Cavs.

The details

Since the end of December, the Cavaliers have won five straight games, thanks in part to the addition of James Harden. Harden has helped create more scoring opportunities for Donovan Mitchell and the Cavs' frontcourt players like Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. However, the All-Star break could disrupt the Cavs' rhythm, and they'll need to quickly reestablish their chemistry and execution against the Nets. Mitchell, who had a busy All-Star weekend, will be a key factor in how the Cavs perform coming out of the break.

  • The Cavaliers and Nets face off on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
  • The Cavaliers enter the game riding a five-game winning streak.

The players

Donovan Mitchell

The Cavaliers' star guard, who is averaging a career-best 29.0 points per game this season.

James Harden

The 11-time All-Star and 2018 NBA MVP, who was recently acquired by the Cavaliers and has helped them rise in the Eastern Conference standings.

Evan Mobley

The Cavaliers' young and talented big man, who has benefited from Harden's playmaking since the trade.

Jarrett Allen

The Cavaliers' starting center, who has also seen an uptick in production with Harden's arrival.

Kenny Atkinson

The head coach of the Brooklyn Nets, who is hoping his team can pull off an upset against the surging Cavaliers.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must keep the momentum going after the break. The first quarter against the Nets will be a good indicator of whether we've maintained our rhythm.”

— Donovan Mitchell, Cavaliers Guard (Cleveland.com)

“James has really helped unlock our offense and get everyone involved. We're excited to see how we can continue to build that chemistry coming out of the All-Star Game.”

— Jarrett Allen, Cavaliers Center (Akron Beacon Journal)

What’s next

The Cavaliers will look to maintain their strong play and continue building chemistry with their new-look roster as they face a struggling Nets team. A win would help solidify their position in the Eastern Conference playoff race.

The takeaway

The Cavaliers' midseason trade for James Harden has paid dividends, but they must now prove they can sustain their momentum coming out of the All-Star break. How Donovan Mitchell and the rest of the team respond will be crucial as they aim to cement their status as a top contender in the East.