05/20/2026, 8:36 AM

Retreats to bench in Game 1 loss

Strus shifted back to the bench after starting in Game 7 against the Pistons. Despite the demotion, he still managed to play meaningful minutes, logging at least 25 minutes for the ninth straight game. While he has been on the floor when it matters, Strus' production has been less than ideal on most nights. He has scored double digits only once in the past seven games, struggling to find his rhythm from the perimeter.

05/20/2026, 8:32 AM

Held in check Tuesday

Allen finished with a serviceable line, although he was well below his best. He continues to alternate good and bad games, adding to Cleveland's mixed fortunes thus far. With that said, he has scored double digits in six of the past seven games, while blocking at least one shot in 14 straight contests. Look for Allen to try to play a more decisive role when the two teams clash again in Game 2 on Thursday.

05/20/2026, 8:29 AM

Exposed in Game 1 loss

Harden struggled to have an impact on the defensive end, with Jalen Brunson having his way down the stretch. New York ran multiple plays to isolate Harden, at which point Brunson was able to get to his spots on the floor. Harden also recorded at least six turnovers for the third time in the past four games, impacted by the defensive pressure put on him by the likes of Mikal Bridges and Josh Hart. Now trailing 1-0, Cleveland will look to rebound after Tuesday's loss, hoping to return home with the series tied at 1-1.