The Cleveland Cavaliers are in a tricky spot. After a franchise-record 16-game winning streak, their recent inconsistency hit a new low with a 114-112 collapse against the Indiana Pacers last night. Missing key players, including Donovan Mitchell, the Cavs couldn’t hold off a Tyrese Haliburton-led comeback. Now, they face another tough test—a back-to-back clash against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. The big question: will Mitchell and other injured stars return tonight?
Clevelnad Cavaliers injury report ahead of New York Knicks clash (April 11, 2025)
The Cavs’ injury list is lengthy, and with playoffs approaching, caution is the priority. Here’s the latest on their key players:
Donovan Mitchell (ankle sprain)
Donovan Mitchell suffered a mild ankle sprain during Sunday’s loss to the Kings. Though he returned to finish that game, he has missed the last two matchups.
Status: Game-time decision
Darius Garland (toe sprain)
Cavs injury report April 11 (Image via NBA)
Garland, averaging 20.5 points and 6.7 assists this season, sat out the Pacers game due to a toe sprain. The Cavs are managing his workload, making his availability uncertain.
Status: Game-time decision
Evan Mobley (rest)
Mobley was rested against Indiana, and the Cleveland Cavaliers may extend that break to keep him fresh for the playoffs.
Status: Game-time decision
Max Strus (knee injury management)
Strus missed the Pacers game with a bone bruise. His role as a key rotational piece makes his status crucial for depth.
Status: Game-time decision
Cavs predicted lineup vs Knicks
With playoffs secured, Cleveland has little incentive to risk starters. Their unofficial projected lineup includes:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Point Guard | Ty Jerome |
| Shooting Guard | Sam Merrill |
| Power Forward | De’Andre Hunter |
| Small Forward | Dean Wade |
| Center | Jarrett Allen |
What’s at stake for the Cleveland Cavaliers?
– Playoff preparation: Resting stars could be strategic, but another loss risks momentum.
– Indiana’s watchful eye: The Pacers trail the Cleveland Cavaliers by just one game for the East’s 3rd seed. A Cavs loss tightens the race.
Also read: Milwaukee Bucks vs Detroit Pistons final injury report (April 11, 2025): Is Giannis Antetokounmpo playing tonight?
Can Cleveland bounce back, or will the Knicks capitalize on their short-handed roster? The decision on Donovan Mitchell and Garland’s availability will shape the answer.
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