Summary
The Cleveland Cavaliers are starting the 2025-26 NBA season with injury challenges. Key players, including Darius Garland and Max Strus, will miss the first game against the New York Knicks, while De’Andre Hunter might also be unavailable. The Cavaliers must adjust their lineup to cope with these absences.
Key Facts
- The Cavaliers finished last season with a 64-18 record, the best in the Eastern Conference.
- Darius Garland is out after toe surgery, and Max Strus is recovering from foot surgery.
- De’Andre Hunter is questionable for the season opener due to a knee injury from a recent game.
- Dean Wade and Jaylon Tyson are potential replacements for Hunter in the starting lineup.
- Max Strus expressed confidence in the team's ability to step up despite injuries.
- The Knicks, Cleveland's first opponent, are also dealing with injuries to key players.
- Cavaliers' coach Atkinson prioritizes player health and cautions against rushing injured players back into action.
