Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroder, the new guards of the Cavaliers

Brandon Miller and Tre Mann had a rough night against the Cavaliers. They scored just 21 points between them, 7/23 shooting and 8 turnovers in a loss to Charlotte. And with good reason, the two players were particularly bothered by the defensive activity Keon Ellis etc Dennis Schroder. Coming from the Kings, the two rookies have performed well on defense since arriving in Ohio.

In 23 minutes, Keon Ellis recorded 4 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals, with a +/- of +19, while Dennis Schroeder had 8 points, 3 assists and 3 steals in 20 minutes, also mostly impactful as his +/- is positive (+16).

“Substitutions bring energy. All of a sudden, it changes the speed of the match. We speed up the opponent’s tempo and it’s good to have this change of pace. It’s hard to play against.”, analyzes Kenny Atkinson.

If the arrival of James Harden allows us to take a step forward offensively, to create a shocking duo with Donovan Mitchell, Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroeder could make a difference on defense.

Very aggressive first curtain

Especially with the first one, “perhaps the most unique player I’ve coached”says the Cavaliers coach. “He’s unique. Sometimes he bounces the ball and we don’t know how he does it. His hands are so quick. He also jumps really fast on contested shots.”

As for Dennis Schroeder, Keon Ellis points that out “When we have a player to apply pressure with a cross, it sets the tone and the player next to us then does the same thing.”. We know, German, went through so many teamsis ringworm.

“I hated playing against him before so it’s great to have him with me”Dean Wade commented earlier this week. “The energy he brings gets us going. Keon’s defense is incredible as well.”

The advantage for the Cavaliers is that the strength of their second curtain, with Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, amplifies the power and attitudes of the first. Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroder can do their best, take risks, knowing that behind them will be players capable of filling holes, making up for certain mistakes.

“In the background, I know I can change the way I defend a little bit. If a player passes me, I know there are players on the inside who will be there to protect the circle. Whereas in Sacramento, we didn’t really have that.”rejoices Keon Ellis.