The Cleveland Cavaliers and Denver Nuggets face off injury challenges as they prepare for Monday’s game at 9 PM ET at Ball Arena. Both teams have multiple players listed as out or questionable, impacting rotations and game plans.
Cleveland will be without Emanuel Miller (G League, two-way), Evan Mobley (left calf strain) and Max Strus (left foot, Jones fracture surgery). Jaylon Tyson and Dean Wade are listed as doubtful with left ankle sprains. Donovan Mitchell and Jarrett Allen are expected to lead the Cavaliers’ core, with Mitchell averaging 28.9 points and 4.6 rebounds per game, and Allen 14.3 points and 8.1 rebounds.
Denver’s injury report is more extensive. Tamar Bates (left foot surgery), Aaron Gordon (right hamstring strain), Peyton Watson (right hamstring strain), Curtis Jones (G League, two-way) and Spencer Jones (concussion protocol) are all out. Nikola Jokic and Christian Braun are likely with ankle sprains, while Jamal Murray is questionable due to left hip inflammation. Jokic remains the focal point, averaging 28.9 points, 12.2 rebounds and 10.7 assists per game.
The Cavaliers have won their last two games, beating the Sacramento Kings 132-126 and the Clippers 124-91. The Nuggets earned a 136-120 victory over the Bulls, but lost in double overtime to the Knicks, 127-134. The teams met earlier this season, with Cleveland securing a 113-108 victory at home on January 2.
Cleveland’s recent trade moves have reshaped their lineup. They acquired James Harden from the Clippers and Dennis Schroder and Keon Ellis from Sacramento while sending Darius Garland, De’Andre Hunter and Lonzo Ball elsewhere. Harden is expected to contribute immediately as the Cavaliers’ primary playmaker.
Denver made a small trade, sending Hunter Tyson and a 2032 second-round pick to the Nets for a future 2026 Clippers/Hawks second-round pick.
The Cavaliers are fourth in the Eastern Conference with a 32-21 record, while the Nuggets are third in the West at 34-19.
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