CLEVELAND — The Cavaliers got their first real look at the 2026-27 roster Thursday night, and while the result will not matter once the regular season begins, there was plenty for Kenny Atkinson to evaluate.
Boston defeated Cleveland, 124-113, at Rocket Arena in the Cavaliers’ preseason opener. Cleveland played most of its regulars during the first half before turning the game over to its reserves after halftime.
James Harden did not play because of an ankle issue, leaving Jaylon Tyson in the starting lineup alongside Donovan Mitchell, Peyton Watson, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen.
Tyson made the most of the opportunity. He led Cleveland with 14 points in just under 17 minutes, shooting 6-of-8 from the floor while adding three rebounds and two assists. Mitchell finished with 11 points and three assists, while Mobley had eight points and Watson contributed seven points, four rebounds, four assists, and two blocks.
Cleveland trailed 32-29 after the first quarter and 71-62 at halftime before its second unit made a push in the third. The Cavaliers outscored Boston 34-28 in the quarter, trimming the deficit to three entering the fourth.
That was as close as Cleveland would get.
Boston finished the night with a 25-17 advantage in the fourth quarter to pull away. The Celtics did it despite sitting several of their biggest names, including Jayson Tatum, Paul George, and Derrick White.
Cleveland’s younger players provided several encouraging moments after the starters were finished. Rookie Meleek Thomas scored 11 points and recorded three steals, while Craig Porter Jr. handed out 10 assists without committing a turnover. Tristan Enaruna added 13 points off the bench.
The Cavaliers also showed some encouraging offensive balance. Cleveland scored 62 points in the paint and finished with 32 assists, but the defensive end was much less convincing. Boston scored at least 28 points in each of the first three quarters and reached 124 despite playing primarily reserves and younger players.
Preseason basketball is largely about experimentation, and Atkinson used the opener accordingly. Cleveland played 17 players, limited its starters to roughly 17 minutes apiece, and got an extended look at several players competing for rotation and roster spots.
The loss makes Cleveland 0-1 in preseason play, but the more important questions remain lineup-related. Watson received the first opportunity at small forward, Tyson looked comfortable with the starters, and several younger guards made cases for additional minutes.
What’s Next
The Cavaliers continue preseason play Sunday when they host the Orlando Magic at Rocket Arena. Tipoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. ET.
