Cavs Miss Key Players in Critical Matchup Against Bucks
The Cleveland Cavaliers are gearing up for a pivotal matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks but face significant challenges due to player absences.
Cavs Without Key Players in Critical Matchup Against Bucks
As they prepare for the game, the Cavaliers will miss crucial contributors Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley. Mitchell is sidelined with a right groin strain. Mobley is out for maintenance due to a left calf injury that previously kept him off the court for several weeks.
Status of James Harden
Compounding the situation, James Harden is listed as questionable after sustaining a broken right thumb during the recent win over the New York Knicks. While the team hasn’t ruled him out definitively, his absence would further strain the lineup.
Additional Player Absences
The Cavaliers will also miss Max Strus, who has yet to play this season due to a foot issue. Along with these players, three two-way players—Darius Brown, Tristan Enaruna, and Riley Minix—are also unavailable.
Projected Starting Lineup
If Harden is unable to play, the Cavaliers’ projected starting lineup may consist of:
- Dennis Schroder
- Sam Merrill
- Jaylon Tyson
- Dean Wade
- Jarrett Allen
Challenges for the Bucks
On the other side, the Bucks are missing their star player, Giannis Antetokounmpo, due to a calf strain. Additionally, Taurean Prince is out following neck surgery, while Alex Antetokounmpo is currently assigned to the G League.
This matchup will test both teams’ depth and resilience, as they navigate critical absences in their rosters. Fans are eager to see how these circumstances will affect the game dynamics on the court.