Overview
- Darius Garland has progressed to contact work, including 3‑on‑3, 4‑on‑4 and limited 5‑on‑5, with Kenny Atkinson saying he is "really close" to rejoining the lineup.
- Jaylon Tyson is "super close" in concussion protocol, with Atkinson indicating there was internal debate about playing Wednesday and hope for clearance by Friday.
- Garland had offseason surgery on his left great toe and has been out since a Nov. 10 contusion sustained against Miami on contact with Nikola Jovic.
- The Cavaliers have not set return dates, but their next home games are Friday against the Pacers and Sunday against the Clippers before a Monday trip to Toronto.
- Cleveland emphasized health management during a dense stretch and was fined $100,000 for resting Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley, while starting 10–5 with Garland appearing in three of the first 15 games.