Cavaliers Face Tough Decisions as Injuries Fade

CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland Cavaliers are gearing up for their first game following the All-Star Break with key player updates ahead of their matchup against the Brooklyn Nets on Thursday night. Guard Ty Jerome (calf) and forward Isaac Okoro (shoulder) have both been cleared to play.

Jerome, who had missed the Cavaliers’ last game before the break, is a vital part of Cleveland’s rotation. In his only outing since February 10, he played 17 minutes against the Nets, recording six points, three assists, one rebound, and one steal in the team’s 110-97 victory. His scoring average of 11.4 points per game on 51.6% shooting makes him a critical asset off the bench. However, Jerome saw a reduction in minutes due to the return of Okoro.

Okoro, sidelined for 14 games because of a right shoulder injury, is noted for his defensive prowess and has improved his long-range shooting this season, boasting a 39.7% accuracy from beyond the arc. “Isaac has made massive strides in his outside shot this season,” said Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson, emphasizing the importance of his return as the team prepares for a challenging slate ahead.

The Cavaliers also anticipate the return of Dean Wade (knee) on Friday against the New York Knicks, increasing the competition for minutes among the wings. Wade’s absence had previously opened opportunities for rookies like Jaylon Tyson.

Despite the returning players, Atkinson faces the challenge of managing a deep roster, as he has relied on a rotation of 10 to 12 players throughout the season. The Cavaliers currently hold a 44-10 record and need to find a balance in minutes as the playoffs approach.

“As much as it will hurt to see players who were instrumental in our success not play in the postseason, we must make these tough decisions,” Atkinson admitted. “Players like Sam Merrill and Isaac Okoro could find themselves on the outside looking in depending on how the matchups play out.”

Outside of Jerome and Okoro’s return, the caveat remains the tight competition for playing time. Even with his recent shooting struggles, Merrill, who averaged 36.1% from three this season, may still find roles in crucial moments.

Additionally, with the elevation of DeAndre Hunter‘s role since his acquisition, and the impressive depth provided by the current roster, Atkinson will actively need to evaluate who earns consistent minutes. Hunter, who has been a solid contributor since joining the Cavaliers, will likely carve out a key role as they navigate through the grind of the postseason.

As the Cavaliers prepare to face the Nets and continue the season, the focus remains not just on winning but ensuring that their top players stay healthy and that the rotations foster chemistry heading into the playoffs. The success of the Cavaliers in the postseason will depend on how effectively Atkinson manages this rotation.

The Cavaliers take on the Brooklyn Nets at 7:30 p.m. ET in an eagerly anticipated game at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Cleveland looks to maintain its position as a top contender in the Eastern Conference as they approach the final stretch of the regular season.