The Cleveland Cavaliers crushed the Washington Wizards 138-113 on February 12, 2026, behind Sam Merrill’s career-high 32 points, Donovan Mitchell’s 30 points, and Jarrett Allen’s perfect 21-point performance. The Washington Wizards vs Cleveland Cavaliers match player stats revealed a dominant display at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse as James Harden made his home debut in wine and gold.
Table of contents
- Final Score & Quarter Breakdown
- Top Performers: Cleveland Cavaliers
- Top Performers: Washington Wizards
- Complete Team Statistics
- Advanced Metrics & Shooting Breakdown
- Game Context & Storylines
- Key Bench Contributions
- Turning Points
- Statistical Comparisons & Efficiency
- Individual Matchup Highlights
- Injury Report & Absences
- Historical Context
- Looking Ahead
- Statistical Leaders Season Context
- Final Thoughts
Final Score & Quarter Breakdown
| Quarter | Cavaliers | Wizards |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | 40 | 24 |
| 2nd | 36 | 37 |
| 3rd | 32 | 28 |
| 4th | 30 | 24 |
| Final | 138 | 113 |
The Cavs jumped out to a commanding 40-24 first quarter lead and never looked back. Cleveland led 76-61 at halftime before Washington made a brief push with a 12-2 run to start the third quarter, cutting the deficit to five. The Wizards never got closer as the Cavaliers pulled away for their fifth straight victory.
Top Performers: Cleveland Cavaliers
Sam Merrill Makes History
| Player | MIN | PTS | FGM-FGA | FG% | 3PM-3PA | 3P% | FTM-FTA | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sam Merrill | 25 | 32 | 11-12 | 91.7% | 9-10 | 90.0% | 1-1 | 5 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Donovan Mitchell | 30 | 30 | 11-19 | 57.9% | 2-7 | 28.6% | 6-6 | 3 | 5 | 2 | 0 | 5 |
| Jarrett Allen | 28 | 21 | 8-8 | 100.0% | 0-0 | 0.0% | 5-6 | 9 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 |
| James Harden | 28 | 13 | 1-4 | 25.0% | 1-4 | 25.0% | 10-12 | 4 | 11 | 0 | 1 | 6 |
Sam Merrill put on an absolute clinic. The sixth-year guard was unstoppable in the first half, going a perfect 9-for-9 from the field with seven three-pointers and 26 points. His performance became the third time in Cavaliers franchise history that a player shot perfectly while making nine or more field goals in a half.
Merrill finished 11-of-12 from the floor and 9-of-10 from beyond the arc, becoming the first player in Cavaliers history to record at least 30 points and zero turnovers while shooting over 90 percent from the floor in a single game. His nine three-pointers fell just one short of tying the Cavs record for threes in a half.
“I took four shots, and we won the game by 25 points,” James Harden said postgame. “Next game, you know what I mean.”
Harden’s impact went beyond the box score. Despite taking just four field goal attempts, he orchestrated the offense masterfully with 11 assists, including six assists on Merrill’s 11 field goals. His playmaking ability opened up the floor and kept defenders honest.
Donovan Mitchell continued his scoring prowess with 30 points, marking his 28th game this season with at least 30 points. The star guard ranks fifth in the league at 29.0 points per game. Jarrett Allen was flawless from the field, going 8-for-8 with 21 points and nine rebounds, showcasing his efficiency around the rim.
Top Performers: Washington Wizards
| Player | MIN | PTS | FGM-FGA | FG% | 3PM-3PA | 3P% | FTM-FTA | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kyshawn George | 32 | 17 | 4-12 | 33.3% | 1-4 | 25.0% | 8-8 | 5 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 |
| Jamir Watkins | 31 | 16 | 7-16 | 43.8% | 2-8 | 25.0% | 0-2 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Bilal Coulibaly | 28 | 13 | 5-9 | 55.6% | 1-4 | 25.0% | 2-3 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 0 |
| Justin Champagnie | 29 | 12 | 5-9 | 55.6% | 2-5 | 40.0% | 0-0 | 8 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 1 |
Kyshawn George led the Wizards with 17 points and went a perfect 8-for-8 from the free-throw line, matching his career high in free throw makes. Jamir Watkins added 16 points but struggled from deep, shooting just 2-of-8 from three-point range.
Justin Champagnie provided a spark off the bench with 12 points, eight rebounds, and three steals. The Wizards’ bench actually outscored Cleveland’s 49-35, but the starters couldn’t keep pace with the Cavaliers’ firepower.
Complete Team Statistics
Cleveland Cavaliers Team Stats
| Category | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Field Goals | 45-83 | 54.2% |
| Three-Pointers | 16-38 | 42.1% |
| Free Throws | 32-37 | 86.5% |
| Total Rebounds | 63 | – |
| Offensive Rebounds | 16 | – |
| Defensive Rebounds | 35 | – |
| Assists | 30 | – |
| Steals | 9 | – |
| Blocks | 8 | – |
| Turnovers | 21 | – |
| Points in Paint | 56 | – |
| Fast Break Points | 10 | – |
| Second Chance Points | 27 | – |
| Points Off Turnovers | 16 | – |
Washington Wizards Team Stats
| Category | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Field Goals | 42-104 | 40.4% |
| Three-Pointers | 14-46 | 30.4% |
| Free Throws | 15-18 | 83.3% |
| Total Rebounds | 46 | – |
| Offensive Rebounds | 19 | – |
| Defensive Rebounds | 21 | – |
| Assists | 26 | – |
| Steals | 13 | – |
| Blocks | 4 | – |
| Turnovers | 15 | – |
| Points in Paint | 44 | – |
| Fast Break Points | 6 | – |
| Second Chance Points | 28 | – |
| Points Off Turnovers | 17 | – |
The Cavaliers shot the ball exceptionally well, converting 54.2% of their field goals compared to Washington’s 40.4%. Cleveland’s three-point shooting (42.1%) was significantly better than the Wizards’ 30.4% mark. The Cavs dominated in the paint with 56 points and controlled the glass with 63 total rebounds.
Advanced Metrics & Shooting Breakdown
Cleveland Shooting Efficiency
| Shot Type | Made-Attempted | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| At Rim | 22-32 | 68.8% |
| Mid-Range | 1-4 | 25.0% |
| Three-Point | 16-38 | 42.1% |
| Free Throw | 32-37 | 86.5% |
| True Shooting % | – | 69.5% |
| Effective FG% | – | 63.9% |
Washington Shooting Efficiency
| Shot Type | Made-Attempted | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| At Rim | 17-28 | 60.7% |
| Mid-Range | 6-13 | 46.2% |
| Three-Point | 14-46 | 30.4% |
| Free Throw | 15-18 | 83.3% |
| True Shooting % | – | 50.5% |
| Effective FG% | – | 47.1% |
Cleveland’s 69.5% true shooting percentage reflected their offensive efficiency throughout the game. The Cavaliers generated high-quality looks at the rim and knocked down threes at a high clip. Washington struggled from beyond the arc, attempting 46 threes but making just 14.
Game Context & Storylines
Harden’s Home Debut
James Harden made his highly anticipated home debut for the Cavaliers after being acquired from the LA Clippers on February 4. The veteran guard registered his second double-double in three games since joining Cleveland, showcasing his ability to impact winning without dominating the ball.
Cavalier fans showed their appreciation by wearing fake beards on sticks throughout the arena. Harden’s playmaking ability was on full display as he created open looks for his teammates with clever passes, including a spectacular behind-the-back dime to Jaylon Tyson.
Cavaliers’ Winning Streak
Cleveland has now won five consecutive games and posted a 10-1 record since January 21. The victory improved their season record to 34-21, good for fourth place in the Eastern Conference. This marked the fifth time this season the Cavaliers haven’t trailed at any point during a game.
The Cavs have now won 15 straight games against the Wizards dating back to 2022, the second-longest winning streak against a single opponent in franchise history. Cleveland has scored 416 total points across three matchups with Washington this season.
Wizards’ Struggles Continue
Washington fell to 14-39 on the season, extending their losing streak to three games. The Wizards have lost four of their last five and sit near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. The team was without starting center Alex Sarr (right hamstring tightness) and backup Tristan Vukcevic (illness), forcing them to play without a traditional big man.
Former All-Star guard Trae Young (right knee sprain) remains sidelined and will be evaluated next week. The absences left Washington undermanned against Cleveland’s frontcourt depth.
Key Bench Contributions
Cleveland Bench Production
| Player | MIN | PTS | FGM-FGA | REB | AST |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nae’Qwan Tomlin | 21 | 8 | 4-8 | 5 | 0 |
| Dennis Schroder | 17 | 7 | 1-5 | 3 | 2 |
| Jaylon Tyson | 18 | 7 | 2-6 | 5 | 1 |
| Thomas Bryant | 13 | 6 | 2-7 | 6 | 1 |
Cleveland’s bench contributed 35 points, with Nae’Qwan Tomlin providing energy with eight points, five rebounds, and two steals. Dennis Schroder added seven points and facilitated the offense when Harden rested.
Washington Bench Production
| Player | MIN | PTS | FGM-FGA | REB | AST |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sharife Cooper | 23 | 11 | 4-9 | 5 | 5 |
| Jaden Hardy | 14 | 11 | 3-7 | 2 | 1 |
| Tre Johnson | 21 | 10 | 4-13 | 3 | 2 |
| Bub Carrington | 21 | 8 | 4-9 | 3 | 4 |
The Wizards’ reserves actually outscored Cleveland’s bench 49-35, with Sharife Cooper (11 points, five assists) and Jaden Hardy (11 points on 3-of-5 three-point shooting) providing offensive sparks. However, the deficit created by the starters proved too much to overcome.
Turning Points
First Quarter Explosion (16-3 Run)
Cleveland opened the game with a 16-3 run that set the tone for the entire evening. Mitchell, Harden, and Merrill each scored nine points in the opening frame as the Cavaliers built a 40-24 advantage.
Merrill’s Second Quarter Takeover
Sam Merrill scored 17 points in the second quarter, including 12 during a crucial 16-5 run that stretched Cleveland’s lead to 74-55 with 2:06 remaining in the half. His perfect shooting kept the Wizards at arm’s length.
Washington’s Third Quarter Push Falls Short
The Wizards opened the third quarter with a 12-2 run, cutting the deficit to 78-73 and showing signs of life. However, Cleveland responded immediately, and Washington never got closer than five points the rest of the way.
Statistical Comparisons & Efficiency
Offensive Ratings
- Cleveland: 132.3 (elite offensive performance)
- Washington: 104.7 (below average efficiency)
Defensive Ratings
- Cleveland: 104.7 (solid defensive outing)
- Washington: 132.3 (struggled to contain Cavs’ offense)
The Cavaliers registered a 113.3 offensive rating in the half-court, marking the third consecutive game with Harden where Cleveland’s half-court offense exceeded 109, an elite benchmark.
Cleveland’s effective field goal percentage (63.9%) far exceeded Washington’s (47.1%), highlighting the quality of shots each team generated. The Cavs’ 1.32 points per possession dwarfed the Wizards’ 1.05 mark.
Individual Matchup Highlights
Point Guard Battle
James Harden controlled the pace and flow of the game with his playmaking, while Sharife Cooper tried to keep Washington competitive with 11 points and five assists off the bench. Harden’s ability to get to the free-throw line (10-of-12) was crucial, as he drew fouls and kept the defense honest.
Wing Showdown
Donovan Mitchell outdueled Kyshawn George and Bilal Coulibaly on both ends of the floor. Mitchell’s 30 points came on efficient shooting inside the arc (9-of-12 on two-pointers), while George struggled with his shot selection (4-of-12 overall).
Frontcourt Dominance
Jarrett Allen’s perfect 8-for-8 shooting performance exposed Washington’s lack of size and rim protection. Without Alex Sarr available, the Wizards had no answer for Allen’s pick-and-roll finishing and offensive rebounding (three offensive boards).
Injury Report & Absences
Cleveland Cavaliers:
- Evan Mobley (left calf strain) – Out, could return by end of month
- Coach Kenny Atkinson indicated the reigning Defensive Player of the Year is progressing well in his recovery
Washington Wizards:
- Alex Sarr (right hamstring tightness) – Out (late scratch)
- Tristan Vukcevic (illness) – Out (late scratch)
- Trae Young (right knee sprain) – Out, to be evaluated next week
The absence of Sarr and Vukcevic left Washington extremely thin in the frontcourt, forcing them to play smaller lineups that Cleveland exploited relentlessly.
Historical Context
This victory marked several notable achievements:
- Sam Merrill became the first Cavalier in the play-by-play era to make seven three-pointers on 100% field goal shooting in a half
- Merrill’s 32-point, zero-turnover performance on 90%+ shooting was a franchise first
- Cleveland extended its winning streak over Washington to 15 games, the second-longest against any opponent in team history
- The Cavs’ 138 points tied their second-highest scoring output of the season
- James Harden joined the exclusive club of players to record a double-double while taking four or fewer field goal attempts
Looking Ahead
Washington Wizards
Next Game: vs Indiana Pacers on February 19
The Wizards desperately need to get healthy and find some consistency. With a 14-39 record, their focus shifts toward player development and building for the future. The return of Trae Young would provide a significant boost to their backcourt.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Next Game: vs Brooklyn Nets on February 20
The Cavaliers head into the All-Star break riding high with five straight wins. At 34-21, they’ve climbed to fourth in the Eastern Conference standings and appear to be hitting their stride at the right time. The integration of James Harden into the offense has been seamless through three games.
Cleveland’s offensive versatility has reached new heights with Harden facilitating alongside Mitchell and Merrill providing elite floor spacing. If Evan Mobley returns healthy after the break, the Cavs could make a serious push up the standings.
Statistical Leaders Season Context
Donovan Mitchell
- Season Average: 29.0 PPG (5th in NBA)
- 28th game with 30+ points
- Consistent scoring threat night after night
Sam Merrill
- Season Average: 13.0 PPG before this game
- Career-high 32 points doubles his season average
- Five games with 20+ points this season
James Harden
- Second double-double in three games with Cleveland
- Averaging 13.0 PPG, 9.3 APG in three games since trade
- Elite playmaker changing Cleveland’s offensive dynamics
Final Thoughts
The Washington Wizards vs Cleveland Cavaliers match player stats told the story of a complete team victory for the Cavs. Sam Merrill’s historic shooting performance, Donovan Mitchell’s steady scoring, Jarrett Allen’s rim dominance, and James Harden’s playmaking combined for a comprehensive beatdown.
Cleveland’s five-game winning streak and 10-1 record since late January signal a team hitting its peak at the perfect time. The addition of Harden has unlocked new dimensions in their offense, creating open looks for shooters like Merrill while keeping defenses from loading up on Mitchell.
For Washington, the road ahead remains challenging. Injuries have decimated their roster, and the 15-game losing streak to Cleveland represents the franchise’s current rebuild. However, young players like Kyshawn George, Sharife Cooper, and Justin Champagnie continue gaining valuable experience.
The Cavaliers showcased why they’re legitimate contenders in the Eastern Conference with balanced scoring, elite shooting efficiency, and playmaking that creates advantages across the board. As Cleveland heads into the All-Star break, the combination of Mitchell’s scoring, Harden’s facilitation, and role players like Merrill stepping up makes them one of the most dangerous teams in the league.
This Washington Wizards vs Cleveland Cavaliers match player stats breakdown highlighted the vast gap between a playoff contender and a rebuilding franchise. For more comprehensive NBA player statistics and game analysis, visit Match vs Player Stats.
Game played on February 12, 2026, at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio
Final Score: Cleveland Cavaliers 138, Washington Wizards 113
Attendance: Capacity crowd for James Harden’s home debut
