Dennis

Schröder

Merrill logged just seven minutes in the Game 1 loss and didn’t register a single point. Still, the Cavaliers’ depth takes a bit of a hit in regard to three-point shooting and overall scoring. In his absence, Max Strus, Dennis Schroder, and Jaylon Tyson should see more minutes.

Schröder and Evan Mobley came up big for the Cavaliers in the second half of Game 5, combining to score 29 of the team’s 58 points. The veteran guard came off the bench and shot 3-of-6 from beyond the arc, with the Cavaliers going 18-of-36 as a team. Game 5 was Schröder’s best outing of the series, as he totaled 18 points in the first four games. A similar effort in Game 6 on Friday would be of great use to the Cavaliers, who need one more win to seal the series.

While Ellis and Schröder were active for Friday’s loss to the Hawks, Bryant has missed Cleveland’s last three games with a strained calf. On the perimeter, Craig Porter Jr. and Tyrese Proctor should play significant minutes, while Olivier Sarr and Tristan Enaruna should pick up rotation minutes in the frontcourt.

Schröder got the starting nod with James Harden (personal) unavailable for this game, and he took advantage of the opportunity. This was his first double-double and second 20-point game since he was traded to Cleveland, which was enough to lead them to victory despite missing multiple starters. Schröder was signed to start for the Kings last summer, but things changed quickly, which led to him being dealt at the deadline. Now, he’ll continue to be an excellent reserve guard for a team looking to make some noise in the playoffs.

Ellis is the only starter that also started on Sunday against the Pacers. Merrill, Mobley and Allen were all sidelined for that game, so they’ll be occupying their usual starting spots. James Harden (personal), Donovan Mitchell (ankle) and Max Strus (foot) are out for this game, with Schröder entering the starting unit.

Harden is out after scoring 28 points in Sunday’s win over the Pacers. His absence means that Dennis Schröder will get a spot start. For those competing in active fantasy leagues, the veteran is worth streaming.

Mitchell is dealing with a left eye contusion, casting some doubt on his status for Thursday’s game. With Max Strus’ playing time still restricted, he, Keon Ellis and Dennis Schröder could all take on more minutes if Mitchell doesn’t play.

Proctor’s continued absence does not affect fantasy basketball, as he had fallen behind Dennis Schröder and Craig Porter Jr. even before the injury. Proctor should only be rostered in dynasty leagues.

The showdown between Harden and Detroit’s Cade Cunningham was one in which both players struggled to knock down shots. Given the defensive abilities of both teams, that isn’t surprising. However, one of the differences for Cleveland was that Harden received more help from the other guards in the rotation. Dennis Schröder (15/5/5 with two three-pointers), Craig Porter Jr. (7/8/3 with one three-pointer) and Keon Ellis (7/3/2/2/1) all gave the Cavaliers good minutes off the bench against the team with the best record in the East.

After missing two games with a fractured right thumb, Harden is available and back in the starting lineup. Dennis Schröder returns to the bench, where his fantasy value takes a hit. Donovan Mitchell and Dean Wade remain out due to injury, so Merrill and Tyson remain in the starting lineup.