Cavs Face Raptors with Key Players Out Due to Injuries

TORONTO — The Cleveland Cavaliers will be short-handed on Monday night as they face the Toronto Raptors. Darius Garland, De’Andre Hunter, Max Strus, Sam Merrill, Craig Porter Jr., and Jarrett Allen are all unable to play due to various injuries and recovery protocols.

Garland is resting due to injury management, Hunter is taking time for rest, Strus is recovering from foot surgery, Merrill has a sprained hand, Porter Jr. is dealing with a hamstring issue, and Allen has a strained finger. Additionally, Dean Wade, who hyperextended his knee in a recent game, is listed as questionable to play.

A source told cleveland.com that it would be a surprise to see Wade in the lineup after his knee-to-knee collision with Los Angeles Clippers forward Nicolas Batum during a recent victory. Despite this, Wade did make the trip to Toronto, giving him a slim chance to suit up against the Raptors.

This matchup marks the second game of a back-to-back for the Cavaliers and their third game in four nights. It has been a challenging stretch for the team, and Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson has emphasized the importance of health and management in light of the rigorous schedule for the 2025-26 season.

Earlier this month, Atkinson faced a fine for violating the league’s Player Participation Policy but stated he would not change his approach to resting players. After Monday’s game, the Cavaliers will enjoy a three-day break before traveling to Atlanta for a matchup on Friday.

With the significant number of injuries and rest nights this season, Atkinson may be forced to make adjustments to his lineup. If Wade cannot play, it will result in the Cavaliers using their 11th different starting lineup. Monday’s game is also the final meeting between the Cavaliers and Raptors this season, with the Raptors currently surging in the Eastern Conference on a seven-game winning streak.