Cleveland

Cavaliers

The Cavaliers were without their entire starting five on the second night of a back-to-back, with nationwide travel disruptions on Friday contributing to a lengthy list of absences. Donovan Mitchell (knee), James Harden (calf), Peyton Watson (hamstring) and Jarrett Allen (knee) were all ruled out, while Evan Mobley missed his second consecutive game due to a toe sprain he sustained earlier this week. Proctor stepped up to lead Cleveland to an unexpected win by shooting over 50 percent from the floor, including 4-of-13 from three-point range. It was his first career triple-double. He’s played over 22 minutes in five consecutive games and has topped 15 points in three straight during that span. Cleveland has a three-game week coming up with home matchups against the Bulls, Grizzlies and Pacers.

Bryant recorded a double-double after drawing the start at center with both Jarrett Allen (knee) and Evan Mobley (toe) both out of action. The 29-year-old big man has played sparingly this season, but could wind up seeing additional minutes off the bench if Mobley is out for an extended period. Cleveland has a three-game week coming up with home matchups against the Bulls, Grizzlies and Pacers.

The Cavs played in Miami on Friday and then had flight delays (like everyone did) that prevented them from returning to Cleveland when they intended. So they’re resting the entire starting five. It will be five new starters for the Cavs, though they will all likely return to reserve roles in their next game.

Allen will join the other four Cavs starters on the sidelines for this game. Thomas Bryant should get the start at center.

Just like the other four starters, Watson will be sidelined for this game. With Jaylon Tyson already starting in place of Evan Mobley on Friday, Mario Hezonja should enter the starting unit.

Mitchell will be unavailable, as will the other four typical starters for Cleveland. Rookie Meleek Thomas should get the starting nod in place of Mitchell. Thomas has been excellent this season, and this should be a good opportunity for him.

The Cavs will be without all five starters in this game. Look for Tyrese Proctor and Craig Porter Jr. to take on expanded roles, which would make both intriguing streaming options.

Watson is on the crowded Cavaliers injury report as questionable with right hamstring injury management. Cleveland’s rotation is truly up in the air until we have more clarity on some of these injury situations.

Allen has a knee injury and is questionable on the injury report, where he has plenty of company from Cavaliers teammates. Ideally, Allen would start, but if he’s ruled out along with Evan Mobley, who has already been ruled out, Thomas Bryant could be in line to start.

Mobley will miss his second game in a row with a left great toe sprain. Merrill will also be out again with right elbow injury management. Without the two, Cleveland can play small with Peyton Watson or use Meleek Thomas and Jaylon Tyson off the bench.