The Cleveland Cavaliers made history with a dominant 149-point performance against the Denver Nuggets, setting a new franchise record for points in regulation. Their offense was unstoppable as they cruised to their 27th win of the season.
Grades reflect expectations for each player.
Donovan Mitchell
33 points (10-17 shooting), 6 assists, 5 rebounds, 1 steal
Mitchell set the tone early, dropping 16 points in the first quarter, including four three-pointers, to propel the Cavs to a 40-point opening period. His shot-making provided Cleveland with a strong foundation and elevated them to an elite level when the team was in sync.
Throughout the game, Mitchell maintained his intensity, consistently thwarting any Denver attempts to rally. His six three-pointers spearheaded Cleveland’s record-breaking offensive display.
Grade: A+
Evan Mobley
26 points (9-13 shooting), 6 assists, 5 rebounds, 1 block
Mobley started quietly but took over in the third quarter, overwhelming Denver’s defense with an impressive scoring display. By the fourth quarter, he was confidently sinking three-pointers, finishing 4-of-6 from beyond the arc — the second-most makes of his career.
Mobley’s development as a floor-spacing scorer has added a new dimension to the Cavs’ offense. His ability to stretch defenses and create driving lanes has cemented his status as a two-way star.
Grade: A+
Darius Garland
25 points (10-18 shooting), 7 assists, 4 steals
While Mitchell shined early, Garland wasn’t far behind. His ability to penetrate Denver’s defense and score in the paint established the Cavs’ dominance.
In the second quarter, Garland extended his range, draining a pivotal three-pointer during Cleveland’s explosive run. When Garland and Mitchell are both firing, the Cavs are nearly unstoppable.
Grade: A+
Jarrett Allen
22 points (10-13 shooting), 10 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals, 1 block
Allen delivered an outstanding two-way performance. His defensive work against Nikola Jokic was crucial, as he disrupted passing lanes, deflected entry passes, and delivered a key block during Denver’s transition attempts.
Offensively, Allen was unstoppable, converting 10-of-13 shots with ease. His dominant presence on both ends left Jokic and the Nuggets reeling.
Grade: A+
Dean Wade
11 points (3-4 shooting), 5 assists, 3 rebounds, 2 blocks
Wade complemented his teammates perfectly, playing his role as a connector on both ends of the floor. His efficient shooting and smart decision-making provided a steadying presence.
Grade: A+
Max Strus
5 points (2-5 shooting), 4 rebounds, 1 assist
Strus is still regaining his rhythm after a limited start to the season. He logged a season-high 24 minutes but struggled to find his shooting touch.
However, his off-ball movement and creative playmaking hint at the value he’ll bring as he rounds into form.
Grade: B
Caris LeVert
13 points (5-10 shooting)
LeVert had a rocky start, missing two layups and a three-pointer early. But he bounced back, knocking down two key triples in the third quarter and staying engaged defensively.
LeVert’s ability to recover from cold spells highlights his growth and the team’s reduced reliance on him to carry the load.
Grade: B+
Sam Merrill
9 points (3-4 shooting), 4 rebounds, 1 assist
Merrill has been a bright spot recently, following up a 22-point game against Utah with three first-half triples against Denver. He contributed on both ends, showing defensive engagement and consistent shooting as a motion scorer.
Grade: A+
Georges Niang
3 points (1-5 shooting), 3 assists
Niang was the only significant contributor who struggled. He missed key opportunities and didn’t hit a three-pointer until garbage time, capping an off night for the forward.