Cleveland Cavaliers’ guard Craig Porter Jr. played a pivotal role in a thrilling 113-108 victory over the Denver Nuggets on March 15, 2024. This comeback marked another impressive performance for Porter, who has emerged as a crucial contributor off the bench in recent games.
Porter, whose efforts often go unnoticed, has become an essential part of the Cavaliers’ second unit. With a series of standout plays, he helped shift the momentum during the fourth quarter, showcasing his versatility and determination. Donovan Mitchell praised Porter, stating, “He does every little thing that you need. It’s great to see him having this role and having this impact.”
Following a challenging 2023-24 season where Porter faced limited playing time and a string of did-not-plays, he committed himself to rigorous training. He transformed his approach to basketball, viewing it as a profession rather than just a game. This mindset shift paid off as he fought for his place in the rotation, ultimately displacing veteran Lonzo Ball from the backup point guard position.
Cavaliers’ head coach Kenny Atkinson made the decision to adjust the lineup in a game against the San Antonio Spurs earlier in the week. He cited the need to explore different combinations and provide Ball with a mental and physical reset. This change proved effective, as Porter logged significant minutes, contributing to the team’s offensive and defensive efforts.
In the recent match against the Nuggets, Porter tallied 10 points, five assists, and five rebounds in just 23 minutes of play. His ability to perform under pressure was evident as he not only scored but also made critical defensive plays, finishing with a plus-minus of +6. Remarkably, he has achieved a top-four plus-minus rating on the team, trailing only Mitchell, Jarrett Allen, and Evan Mobley.
“He’s doing all the things we need,” De’Andre Hunter remarked about Porter’s contributions, emphasizing his energy and ability to score. During the comeback, Porter was instrumental in turning the game around. He scored seven out of the first 11 points in the final period, which invigorated the home crowd and rejuvenated his teammates.
Porter’s impact reflects a broader identity shift within the Cavaliers’ bench. “I feel like it’s just a lot of grit,” Porter noted. “We come in, we want to pressure the ball, we want to get into guys, force turnovers and run in transition.” This aggressive style aligns with Atkinson’s vision for the team, which places emphasis on fast-paced play and defensive intensity.
The chemistry between Porter and Mitchell has also been notable, with the duo outscoring opponents by an impressive 15.5 points per 100 possessions when they share the court. This statistic highlights the effectiveness of their partnership, which contrasts with the less productive lineup that included Ball.
Mitchell acknowledged Porter’s influence, stating, “He makes my life a hell of a lot easier. There’s a trust there.” This trust is vital as the Cavaliers navigate through the season, especially with injuries affecting other players.
As the team continues to battle for playoff positioning, Porter’s growth and contributions will be critical. His journey from an overlooked player to a key figure in the Cavaliers’ rotation serves as an inspiring testament to hard work and resilience. With Porter leading the charge, the Cavaliers are poised to make significant strides in the coming weeks.
