Keon

Ellis

Schröder popped up on the injury report as questionable with an illness just hours before game-time and was subsequently ruled out. It’s a difficult development for the Cavaliers to weather while already trailing 3-0 in the series. It’s unclear who will step into Schröder’s vacated bench minutes, though Keon Ellis is a likely candidate.

While Ellis and Schröder were active for Friday’s loss to the Hawks, Bryant has missed Cleveland’s last three games with a strained calf. On the perimeter, Craig Porter Jr. and Tyrese Proctor should play significant minutes, while Olivier Sarr and Tristan Enaruna should pick up rotation minutes in the frontcourt.

Mitchell’s absence will leave the Cavaliers without their best scorer on Friday. In his absence, Keon Ellis or Max Strus could move into a starting role, creating more opportunities for them to produce. Sam Merrill is also a candidate to slot in as a replacement starter.

Merrill came off the bench and logged 27 minutes in the Cavaliers’ win over the Hawks on Wednesday, draining a pair of three-pointers along the way. However, he won’t be available for the rematch, which could allow Keon Ellis and Max Strus to take on a heavier workload.

Mitchell is back after sitting out Monday’s win over the Grizzlies. His return will bump Keon Ellis to the bench.

Spida sat out Monday, but he could be back in action after just a one-game absence. If Mitchell is unable to take the court, Keon Ellis could replace him in the starting five.

Ellis got a second straight start, and he was even better in this one. He set a new career high for assists and still knocked down three triples for a second straight game. Ellis won’t start when this team is healthy, but it is clear that he was a vital acquisition at the trade deadline and will continue to be an important piece for Cleveland entering the playoffs. Despite being productive when he was given the chance, Ellis wasn’t able to carve out a permanent starting role for Sacramento. He’s enjoyed plenty of success as a part-time starter for the Cavs.

Mobley and Allen did not play in Sunday’s win over the Pacers, resulting in spot starts for Keon Ellis and Thomas Bryant. While Bryant is out with a strained calf, Ellis could remain in the starting lineup since Donovan Mitchell is out.

Mitchell, who appeared to injure his left ankle during the fourth quarter of Sunday’s win over the Pacers, has been diagnosed with a sprain and will not play in Memphis. Keon Ellis, who made a spot start on Sunday, may get another start on Monday.

The Cavaliers were without Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen on Sunday, so Bryant was able to make his first start of the season. And he played well, recording his first double-double since February 6, 2025 as a member of the Pacers. Keon Ellis also made a spot start on Sunday, finishing with 13 points (5-of-9 FGs), five rebounds, one steal and three three-pointers.