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Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Indiana Pacers player grades

Evaluating performances from the Cavs’ much-needed win.

NBA: Indiana Pacers at Cleveland Cavaliers Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

Here are your player grades for Cavs-Pacers.

LeBron James: A-

James had a quadruple-double and said after the game that he forced a few passes, leading to some avoidable turnovers. Other than that, James was excellent and the Pacers had no answer for him anywhere on the the floor.

Kevin Love: B

Love had a quiet 10-point, 13-rebound performance as he shifted back to playing power forward.

Isaiah Thomas: D

On an overall good night for the Cavs, Thomas had another rough performance and picked up a technical foul for good measure. He had a few good moments, but is clearly still trying to find his way.

Tristan Thompson: A-

Thompson was excellent in his first start since November and finished with a double-double. His work on defense was particularly valuable.

J.R. Smith: A+

Post- game, when a reporter said in a question that Smith wouldn’t shoot 13 three-pointers every night, he interrupted and said “I’ll try.” Plus, he tied a season high with four steals.

The Cavs need this J.R. Smith.

Jae Crowder: D

Crowder played only 16 minutes, missed all four of his shot attempts and had a team worse +/- of -16. Not the best start in his new role.

Derrick Rose: A-

Rose had just one turnover against two assist and played with an energy that he isn’t always able to. His performance against the Pacers looks even better on a night where Thomas struggled.

Jeff Green: A-

Green had 11 points on 5-6 shooting in 14 minutes off the bench. Not a bad night for him.

Kyle Korver: B-

Korver’s only points came when he made two free throws with 6.9 seconds to go. Teams are still focusing on keeping him from even touching the ball.

Channing Frye: B

Frye provided some needed spacing on bench units. This is a role that suits him moving forward if he’s not traded.