The Cleveland Cavaliers, coming off an eight-game winning streak snapped by the Milwaukee Bucks, are gearing up for a rematch, but their roster remains hindered. Emoni Bates, currently on a G League assignment, Darius Garland with a jaw injury, Evan Mobley nursing a knee issue, Ty Jerome dealing with an ankle problem, and Tristan Thompson serving a suspension will all be absent against the Bucks. Thompson faces a 25-game suspension for violating the NBA and NBPA Anti-Drug Program after testing positive for ibutamoren and SARM LGD-4033, both performance-enhancing drugs. The earliest Thompson can return is on March 16 against the Houston Rockets.
Mobley, anticipated to be out for at least another week, prompts the Cavs to rely on Damian Jones in the center position when Jarrett Allen is off the court. Bates, having served a suspension for confronting fans after a G League game, is back with the Cleveland Charge, the Cavs’ G League affiliate.
On a brighter note, there’s optimism regarding the return of Garland and Mobley, who have been absent since mid-December 2023. Coach J.B. Bickerstaff stated that Garland stayed back during the road trip to work with the training staff, focusing on recovery and readiness to rejoin the team. Sources indicate Mobley’s progressing recovery, allowing him to engage in contact portions before the Bucks game and offering insights into his knee’s condition post-surgery. While there are still benchmarks for Mobley to clear, signs point towards his imminent return. The Cavs eagerly await the full resurgence of their sidelined players to fortify their lineup in upcoming games.
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