Cavs Overcome Shorthanded Roster to Defeat Grizzlies

Depth players step up in third straight win for Cleveland

Apr. 7, 2026 at 2:35am

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A dynamic, colorful painting featuring overlapping, expressive brushstrokes that capture the intensity and movement of a basketball game, conveying the energy and excitement of the Cavaliers' win over the Grizzlies.The Cavaliers' depth and resilience shine through in a high-scoring victory over the Grizzlies.Memphis Today

The shorthanded Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Memphis Grizzlies in a high-scoring affair, with several role players making key contributions to the victory. Keon Ellis had a standout performance, scoring 16 points and hitting three 3-pointers in the first half. Jarrett Allen also made his presence felt with a monster block and a thunderous dunk. Lamar Porter and Darius Tomlin, two unlikely heroes earlier in the season, delivered strong performances to help the Cavs overcome the Grizzlies' hot shooting from beyond the arc.

Why it matters

The Cavaliers' ability to win games with a depleted roster showcases the team's depth and resilience, which will be crucial as they continue their push for the playoffs. The performance of role players like Ellis, Porter, and Tomlin also highlights the team's strong development of young talent, which could pay dividends in the long run.

The details

The Cavaliers were able to overcome the Grizzlies' hot shooting from 3-point range, as the home team tied an NBA record by making 29 3-pointers. Despite the Grizzlies' offensive outburst, the Cavaliers were able to rely on their depth and balanced scoring attack to secure the victory.

  • The Cavaliers were playing the second game of a back-to-back set.
  • Keon Ellis had a strong shooting performance, hitting three 3-pointers in the first half.

The players

Keon Ellis

A young guard for the Cavaliers who had a standout performance, scoring 16 points and hitting three 3-pointers in the first half.

Jarrett Allen

The heart and soul of the Cavaliers, Allen made several highlight-reel plays, including a monster block and a thunderous dunk.

Lamar Porter

A role player for the Cavaliers who stepped up with a strong defensive performance, recording 2 blocks and 2 steals to go along with 8 rebounds.

Darius Tomlin

Another Cavaliers role player who delivered a much-needed performance, grabbing 9 rebounds, including 4 on the offensive end.

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What they’re saying

“We've seen shades of Ellis that we didn't even know existed. The three-point stroke is pure, but some of his on-ball attacks have really surprised me.”

— Tony Pesta, Author

“Allen's been the heart and soul of the Cavaliers this season. He put that on full display once again tonight with a handful of jaw-dropping plays.”

— Tony Pesta, Author

What’s next

The Cavaliers will look to continue their winning streak as they face another tough opponent in their next game.

The takeaway

The Cavaliers' ability to win games with a depleted roster showcases the team's depth and resilience, which will be crucial as they continue their push for the playoffs. The strong performances from role players like Ellis, Porter, and Tomlin highlight the team's strong development of young talent, which could pay dividends in the long run.