Overview

• Max Strus is expected to miss about two months with a broken foot and Darius Garland is out early after toe surgery, positioning Mitchell to handle point-guard duties with Sam Merrill at shooting guard.
• Mitchell said he prepared earlier this offseason and aims to elevate scoring, passing, rebounding, defense and conditioning, calling it “time to go get it.”
• The Cavaliers retained their core of Mitchell, Evan Mobley, Garland and Jarrett Allen and added veterans Lonzo Ball and Larry Nance Jr., setting up an immediate depth test.
• Cleveland went 64-18 last season before a five-game exit to Indiana in the East semifinals, and Mitchell emphasized the need for a stronger mental push in the postseason.
• BetMGM lists the Cavs as Eastern Conference favorites at +240, and team leadership says there is a plan to have Mitchell peaking in June.