The Cleveland Cavaliers enter this contest without
Evan Mobley,
Larry Nance Jr.,
Max Strus, and
Sam Merrill, placing significant offensive responsibility on
Donovan Mitchell and
Darius Garland. The status of
Jarrett Allen (GTD) will be crucial, as his absence would further concentrate usage among the active guards. For the Charlotte Hornets, the injury report is extensive, with
LaMelo Ball,
Collin Sexton,
Grant Williams,
Pat Connaughton, and
Tre Mann all sidelined. This opens up massive opportunities for
Miles Bridges and
Brandon Miller to lead the scoring.
Mason Plumlee could also see increased rebounding opportunities. This game presents several high-usage options on both sides due to the widespread injuries.