Cavs Face Injury Woes Ahead of Showdown with Nets

CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland Cavaliers, holding a 54-10 record and leading the Eastern Conference, face the Brooklyn Nets (22-42) tonight at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse at 7 p.m. ET, but they may be without key players due to injuries. Ty Jerome will not play as he rests, while Donovan Mitchell and De’Andre Hunter are both listed as questionable.

Jerome, having a breakout year as the team’s Sixth Man, aims to join the exclusive 50/40/90 club — a feat last achieved by Mark Price in 1993. This club features players who maintain a shooting percentage of at least 50% from the field, 40% from three-point range, and 90% from the free-throw line in a season.

“Ty has been integral to our team’s success this year,” said Cavaliers head coach J.B. Bickerstaff. “His efficiency and ability to score off the bench have been vital.”

Mitchell is questionable with a groin injury, which could significantly impact the team’s performance as they push toward the playoffs. The Cavaliers are keen to preserve their top players for a strong postseason run, especially following a record-setting regular season so far.

Hunter, who is experiencing illness, has not been on the losing side since joining the Cavaliers in February, contributing to a current 14-game win streak. Losing both him and Jerome could stretch the Cavaliers’ bench thin.

“We’re going to need our depth to shine if we lose some guys,” Bickerstaff added. Players like Isaac Okoro, Dean Wade, and Craig Porter Jr. are expected to step up in their absence.

The Nets, despite their struggles this season, promise to be a tenacious opponent, as they recently snapped a seven-game losing streak by defeating the Los Angeles Lakers. However, they will be without D’Angelo Russell due to an ankle injury.

“Every game matters, especially against top-seeded teams like the Cavaliers,” remarked Nets head coach Kenny Atkinson. “Our players show up and compete hard every night; we won’t take this challenge lightly.”

Brooklyn’s roster includes key players like Cam Thomas and Cameron Johnson, who will be crucial for their chances against Cleveland. The last matchup between the two teams saw the Cavaliers emerge victorious by 13 points, with the Cavaliers showcasing their defensive prowess and teamwork.

Both teams have declared their injury reports: Cavaliers’ injuries include Mitchell (questionable, groin), Hunter (questionable, illness), and Jerome (out, rest). The Nets are missing Russell (out, ankle) and De’Anthony Melton (out for season, ACL). Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. EST, offering fans an anticipated night of Eastern Conference action.