CLEVELAND (WJW/AP) — The Cleveland Cavaliers continue their postseason preparations with the recent addition of guard/forward Javonte Green, who was officially signed to the team after being waived by the New Orleans Pelicans. The Cavaliers hope Green will serve as a valuable rotation piece, as they aim for success during the 2025 playoffs.
Javonte Green, 31, previously played for multiple NBA teams including Boston and Chicago before spending part of this season with New Orleans. Standing at 6-foot-4, Green's versatility and experience, showcased during his six-season career, make him a strategic asset for the Eastern Conference-leading Cavaliers. Following his acquisition, Green expressed excitement about joining the Cavs, stating, "The winning culture, first in the East, just having the culture behind them. The way they're playing, it's just exciting to watch. That was a big part of me choosing here." Green will wear the number 8 jersey as he joins his new teammates.
The Cavaliers welcomed Green to the team with enthusiasm as he participated in his first practice on Sunday, prior to their highly anticipated matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies. The game is particularly notable as it features two prominent point guards: Cavaliers’ Darius Garland and Grizzlies’ Ja Morant.
Unfortunately for Cavs fans, Garland's participation is uncertain for the game against the Grizzlies. Sources reported he will not be playing due to injury, which diminishes the excitement of the anticipated point guard duel. Garland, 25, is averaging 21.3 points and 6.7 assists per game this season, making him one of the key players for Cleveland.
Adding to the Cavs' injury woes, center Jarrett Allen is also questionable for Sunday’s game after sustaining a sprained right finger. Allen has been instrumental for the Cavaliers this season, averaging 13.6 points and 10.4 rebounds per game. Both players’ absences present challenges for the team as they prepare to defend their current position as top-seeded team in the Eastern Conference.
The Cavaliers enter their clash with the Grizzlies having won six consecutive games and demonstrating the resilience of their squad. The team’s recent success can be credited to their strong chemistry and unselfish play, traits Green noted as appealing factors for joining the franchise.
"Just how unselfish they are on the offensive end, and on the defensive end, how they help each other – just playing together," Green remarked on his new team's style of play.
The road has not been easy for the Grizzlies, who recently concluded a five-game road trip with mixed results, aiming for improvements as they face the Cavaliers. Memphis holds significant talent, with Ja Morant and Luke Kennard making contributions on both ends of the floor.
During prior matchups, Cleveland showcased their offensive prowess led by All-Star Donovan Mitchell, who recorded 22 points. This previous encounter underlined their ability to compete against top-level talent, which will be key as they head toward playoff contention.
The local fanbase is eagerly awaiting the game’s kick-off at 7 PM ET at Rocket Arena. With both teams boasting high stakes, including potential playoff positioning and personal accolades, this matchup against the Grizzlies will test the Cavaliers' depth and determination.
With Javonte Green now part of the rotation, Cleveland believes they can navigate through the challenging times posed by injuries and maintain their pace toward the playoffs. The growing camaraderie within the team and their resilience might just be the factors needed to secure yet another victory against Memphis.