Cavs Seek Win Against Hawks Amid Injury Struggles

CLEVELAND, OH — The Cleveland Cavaliers are looking to halt a potential three-game losing streak as they face off against the Atlanta Hawks today at Rocket Arena. The matchup is set for 6 p.m. Eastern Standard Time and will be broadcast live on FanDuel Sports Network.

Both teams enter the game with injury challenges. The Cavaliers are currently dealing with several key absences, including Darius Garland and Max Strus, who are both out due to injuries. Donovan Mitchell, Jarrett Allen, and Sam Merrill are listed as questionable, meaning their participation is uncertain as game time approaches.

On the other side, the Hawks will be without their star player, Trae Young, who is sidelined for four weeks with a knee sprain. Without Young, Atlanta’s offensive play is expected to suffer, especially since he is a central figure in their game strategy.

Both teams are looking to gain some momentum after rocky starts to the season. The Cavaliers, currently 3-3, have struggled to find their rhythm on offense, often failing to produce scoring opportunities in the paint due to injuries to key players. In their most recent loss, the Cavs shot just 36% from the field against the Toronto Raptors despite strong performances from Jaylon Tyson, who scored 18 points, and Evan Mobley, who added over 25 points.

The Cavaliers need a collective effort to overcome their injury woes. Coach Kenny Atkinson is hopeful that players like Tyson and Mobley can lead the charge, particularly inside the paint. Tyson has emerged as a crucial player, displaying energy and improvement each game.

The Hawks (3-3) are experiencing a mix of fortune with Jalen Johnson stepping up in the absence of Young. Coming off a nearly triple-double performance in their last game—a 128-108 victory against the Indiana Pacers—Johnson is expected to be a key offensive player for Atlanta.

As the Cavaliers prepare for this crucial matchup, they aim to shift away from their recent performance trends and find success against a rival that has historically given them trouble. Last season, the Hawks dominated the Cavaliers, winning three of four matchups. The Cavs are determined to turn the tables and emerge victorious tonight.

Tip-off is set for 6 p.m., and both teams will look to capitalize on the other’s vulnerabilities in this Eastern Conference bout.