By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
As the Cleveland Cavaliers prepare for their next challenge in the 2026 NBA Playoffs, presented by Google, experienced point guard Dennis Schroder reflected on the team’s current momentum. Following team practice on Wednesday, the 32-year-old German native emphasized the focus required to maintain their lead in a best-of-seven series opposite the Toronto Raptors.
“Every single game, you want to go out there, compete at the highest level, try to get a win. We are 2-0 up, but I think this one is a mental game. Just got to go out there, be focused. Everybody is ready, and every possession counts,” he opened his media session.
Currently in his 13th NBA season and tenth postseason campaign, Schroder has logged 27 minutes over the first two games versus the team coached by Serbia’s Darko Rajakovic, averaging 3.5 points and 3.0 assists. Despite the modest stat line, his veteran leadership has been a key factor in Cleveland’s depth. Regarding his role, he noted, “It’s whatever it takes to win. Whatever the coach or the team needs from me, I will be ready. First and foremost, on the defensive end, trying to set the tone, and then play fast on the offensive end.”
The Braunschweig native is no stranger to deep playoff runs, having appeared in the postseason with the Atlanta Hawks, Oklahoma City Thunder, Los Angeles Lakers, and Detroit Pistons. However, he acknowledged that this Cavs squad offers a special opportunity. When asked if this team represents his best chance to reach the NBA Finals, he responded, “If I were to say no, it would sound kind of crazy. I had a couple of good chances with a couple of good teams I’ve been on, but, of course, the talent level we got in this locker room, and the character is unique. We just have to go one game at a time.”
This postseason run also marks a full-circle moment for Schroder and head coach Kenny Atkinson. Their professional relationship dates back to 2013, when Atkinson was an assistant with the Atlanta Hawks tasked with the rookie’s early development. The two share a unique bond through Braunschweig, where Atkinson once played, and Schroder was raised.
Up 2-0 in the best-of-seven series, the Cavaliers now head to Scotiabank Arena to face the Raptors on Thursday and Sunday.
NBA Playoffs 2026
Eastern Conference
Quarterfinals (best-of-seven)
1. Detroit Pistons – Orlando Magic 1-1 (101-112, 98-83)
2. Cleveland Cavaliers – Toronto Raptors 2-0 (126-113, 115-105)
3. New York Knicks – Atlanta Hawks 1-1 (113-102, 106-107)
4. Boston Celtics – Philadelphia 76ers 1-1 (123-91, 97-111)
Semifinals (best-of-seven)
5. Winners 1-2
6. Winners 3-4
Finals (best-of-seven)
Winners of Semifinals
Western Conference
Quarterfinals (best-of-seven)
1. Oklahoma City Thunder – Phoenix Suns 2-0 (119-84, 120-107)
2. Los Angeles Lakers – Houston Rockets 2-0 (107-98, 101-94)
3. Denver Nuggets – Minnesota Timberwolves 1-1 (126-115, 114-119)
4. San Antonio Spurs – Portland Trail Blazers 1-1 (111-98, 103-106)
Semifinals (best-of-seven)
5. Winners 1-2
6. Winners 3-4
Finals (best-of-seven)
Winners of Semifinals
NBA Finals 2026 (best-of-seven)
Eastern Conference and Western Conference champions