Winners and Losers: Cavs at Warriors – Max Strus saves the day

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 02: Max Strus #2 of the Cleveland Cavaliers makes a three-point shot in the fourth quarter against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on April 02, 2026 in San Francisco, California. 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. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) | Getty Images The Cleveland Cavaliers pulled out a win against the Golden State Warriors.

Let’s go over today’s winners and losers. WINNER AND LOSER – Defense On one hand, the Cavs played to their strengths by packing the paint and daring Golden State to shoot from downtown. The math worked in Cleveland’s favor as the Warriors shot just 12-44 from downtown.

That’s a win for the Cavs. Nonetheless, am I greedy for thinking the Cavs’ defense could have been even better? They blew a handful of possessions by simply falling asleep at the wheel.

Let’s take a look at a few examples. This first clip is a prime example of ball watching. If any of Cleveland’s guards made an active effort to attack the glass, they might have secured this defensive stop.