The Cleveland Cavaliers entered Tuesday night's contest against the Portland Trail Blazers attempting to keep their good momentum rolling.
All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell missed the contest, so it was up to fellow All-Stars Darius Garland and Evan Mobley to carry the team to victory.
It was far from a perfect game, but in a way, it was the perfect scenario for the Cavs to be in at this time.
Cleveland has been battered by fans and analysts all season long on social media and national TV, and one of the biggest reasons is the drop-off in production behind Mitchell.
Garland and Mobley haven't captured the acknowledgement and respect from national audiences, but they had a chance to prove it against a surging, young Portland squad.
Cleveland Cavaliers swingman De'Andre Hunter and guard Darius Garland celebrate after a 3-point shot against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center on March 23, 2025. Peter Creveling-Imagn Images Peter Creveling-Imagn Images
The former Vanderbilt guard had an impressive 27-point performance, nine of which came in the fourth quarter, to go along with eight assists.
While Garland dazzled on offense, it was Mobley's unrivaled defense that led the Cavs to victory.
The fourth year forward had 21 points and 12 rebounds, but the defensive end is where his presence was really felt, tallying four blocks.
His defensive performances are almost always elite, but this particular game was so special that multiple players and coaches commented on it.
During their joint post-game interview, Garland was asked about the defensive effort and called Mobley "Defensive Player of the Year."
Victor Wembanyama was the overwhelming favorite to win the award for the entirety of the season, but an unfortunate blood clot diagnosis put the accolade up for grabs.
It's been a heated race between Mobley and Atlanta Hawks breakout guard Dyson Daniels, but because the award tends to favor big shot blockers, so the former USC forward has the upper hand.
Kenny Atkinson also spoke about Mobley's night, calling it, "another Defensive Player of the Year" performance.
Fans and executives have been enamored with the big man's talent since he was drafted in 2021. After displaying itself in short doses over his first three years in the NBA, his talent is available for the world to see much more often.
Related: Donovan Mitchell's Shocking Reaction to Cavs Losing Streak
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This story was originally published March 26, 2025 at 4:00 PM.
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