Player Grades: Cavs vs. Magic – Donovan Mitchell and James Harden lead potent offense in win

CLEVELAND, OH - MARCH 24: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers enters the court before the game against the Orlando Magic on March 24, 2026 at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images The Cleveland Cavaliers didn’t have their best defensive effort, but their offense more than made up for it as they defeated the Orlando Magic 136-131 .

All grades are based on our usual expectations for each player. A “B” grade represents that player performing to our expectations for them. James Harden 26 points, 7 assists, 3 rebounds Harden and Paolo Banchero spent much of this game attacking each other in isolation.

Harden didn’t fare well defensively in that matchup, but he made up for it by getting clean looks at the other end. This game was a great example of how Harden can completely change a game with his ability to manage an offense. He made sure that they got the right shot every time down the court.

He also made this absurd pass, which counts for something. James Harden what is this pic. twitter.