Winners and Losers: Cavs at Grizzlies – Depth shines in third straight win

A shorthanded Cleveland Cavaliers beat the Memphis Grizzlies on the second night of a back-to-back. Let’s go over today’s winners and losers.

WINNER – Keon Ellis

This was a fantastic 48 hours for Keon Ellis.

He started the week by nailing 3-of-7 three-point attempts in Cleveland’s win over the Pacers. Then, he followed it up with another big shooting night on the road — scoring 16 points and nailing another three three-pointers in the first half against Memphis.

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. In particular, he had a drive out of the baseline that turned into a totally unexpected across-his-body dunk.

This rangy athleticism has made Ellis the type of player who can rack up steals and blocks. But seeing him use it on the drive is just as exciting. He’s quickly filling in offensively as another multifaceted guard who can shoot, cut, dribble, and attack the basket.

WINNER – Jarrett Allen Handles

Life is always better when Allen is on the court.

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.

We had a few to choose from. His monster block in the first half, followed by an and-one finish, was pretty sweet. But I have to shout out this filthy behind-the-back move into a thunderous dunk as the play of the night.

WINNER – Nae’Qwan Tomlin and Craig Porter Jr.

Porter and Tomlin were two unlikely heroes earlier in the season. Their timely contributions helped the Cavs stay above water during a treacherous start to the year. Since then, the team has slightly moved past the need for them.

Tonight was different.

This was probably the best game that either of them has played since before the All-Star break. Tomlin, especially, delivered a much-needed performance to prove that converting his contract was worth it. Tomlin was everywhere, gobbling up 4 offensive rebounds and 9 boards overall.

Tomlin’s energy can raise the floor for this team. We saw it a bunch in the ‘ber months. He’s had a more difficult time staying on the court recently — but his work ethic remains his greatest strength. Tomlin simply wouldn’t take no for an answer.

As for Porter, he continues to play bigger than his size. Brad Duaghtery referred to him as “little Wemby” tonight. And, while yes, that’s an insane thing to say. Is he entirely wrong…? Porter is better at blocking shots and grabbing boards than he is at being a modern-NBA point guard. He’s a big man stuck in a 6’1” frame.

Quirky comparisons aside, Porter helped fuel a comeback run for the Cavs with his rebounding and strong defensive impact. Porter had 2 blocks and 2 steals to go with 8 rebounds.

LOSER – Three-Point Defense

I mean, come on, Cavs.

There’s only so much you can say at this point. Even with injuries across the board for both teams — one simple truth remains. Opposing teams can light them up from downtown.

The Grizzlies entered this game 21st in three-point percentage. That didn’t stop them from shooting 29-59 from deep in this one. That’s tied for the most three-pointers in NBA history.

I can’t stress enough how much leeway I’ve given the Cavs in recent years when it comes to defending the three-point line. I fully understand that three-point variance can paint an inaccurate picture on any given night.

But we are long past the point of blaming luck on anything happening to the Cavs this season. If a team ties history against you, it’s time to face the music.

Of course, neither team was anywhere near full strength. That adds a dose of unpredictability that I’m willing to acknowledge. However, the Cavs remain near the bottom of the league in terms of opponent three-point shooting. That’s a full-season trend that’s impossible to ignore.

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