Cavaliers Cruise Past Wizards in Harden's Home Debut

Sam Merrill's career-high 32 points lead Cleveland to 138-113 victory.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Washington Wizards 138-113 in a lopsided victory that featured a career-high 32 points from Sam Merrill. Donovan Mitchell also contributed 30 points for the Cavaliers in the win, which came in James Harden's home debut with the team.

Why it matters

The Cavaliers' dominant performance showcases their offensive firepower and ability to win convincingly, even with a new star player like Harden joining the lineup. It also highlights the continued development of young talents like Merrill, who is emerging as a key contributor for Cleveland.

The details

Sam Merrill led the way for the Cavaliers, pouring in a career-high 32 points on an efficient shooting night. Donovan Mitchell added 30 points, while James Harden, in his first home game with Cleveland, finished with 18 points and 12 assists. The Cavaliers' offense was firing on all cylinders, shooting 55% from the field and 45% from three-point range.

  • The game took place on February 12, 2026.

The players

Sam Merrill

A young guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers who set a career-high with 32 points in the win over the Wizards.

Donovan Mitchell

An All-Star guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers who scored 30 points in the victory.

James Harden

A veteran star player who made his home debut for the Cavaliers, contributing 18 points and 12 assists.

Washington Wizards

The opposing team that was defeated by the Cavaliers in this game.

Cleveland Cavaliers

The home team that won this game convincingly with a final score of 138-113.

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What they’re saying

“We came out with a lot of energy and really set the tone early. When we play like that, we're tough to beat.”

— Sam Merrill, Cavaliers Guard (myplainview.com)

The takeaway

The Cavaliers' dominant win showcases their offensive firepower and ability to win convincingly, even with a new star player like Harden joining the lineup. It also highlights the continued development of young talents like Merrill, who is emerging as a key contributor for Cleveland.