Overview

• Donovan Mitchell said he adopted a midseason mindset after learning Max Strus would miss roughly two months, signaling readiness to take on more lead-guard duties.
• Team updates confirmed Strus has a broken foot and Darius Garland underwent toe surgery, with both expected to miss the first couple months of the season.
• Mitchell is likely to start at point guard with Sam Merrill at shooting guard until Garland returns, according to media day guidance.
• Cleveland retained its core and added veterans Lonzo Ball and Larry Nance Jr., reinforcing depth as Kenny Atkinson enters his second season as head coach.
• Players highlighted an offseason push on conditioning and mental preparation following a 64-win season that ended with a five-game semifinal loss to Indiana, with sportsbooks listing the Cavs among East favorites.