The Cleveland Cavaliers delivered one of their most balanced performances of the season in Wednesday’s win over the Philadelphia 76ers - but the celebration was short-lived. The victory came with a significant price: injuries to two key rotation players, Darius Garland and Sam Merrill. Neither will be available for Friday’s rematch in Philly, and while the team hasn’t offered a firm timetable for their return, the absences are already being felt.
Garland exited in the third quarter after an awkward fall while battling for a loose ball. The result?
Soreness in his right great toe - not the same toe he had surgery on this past offseason, but still concerning given the history. The former All-Star has been gradually finding his rhythm this season, averaging 18 points and nearly 7 assists across 26 games.
His ability to break down defenses and orchestrate the Cavs’ offense is a central piece of what Cleveland does, and without him, the backcourt rotation will be tested.
Then there’s Merrill, who’s been one of the more pleasant surprises of the season. The sharpshooter re-injured his right hand - the same one that sidelined him for over a month earlier this year - and has been diagnosed with a sprain.
Merrill is in the midst of a breakout campaign, averaging 13.8 points while shooting a blistering 45.5% from deep. His spacing has been crucial, especially with the Cavs leaning more into perimeter shooting to complement their interior strength.
Cleveland’s injury report doesn’t stop there. Max Strus (foot) and Dean Wade (knee contusion) are also out, while Luke Travers and Chris Livingston remain with the G League squad.
That’s a sizable chunk of the rotation unavailable for a key Eastern Conference matchup, and it’s going to force head coach J.B. Bickerstaff to get creative with his lineups.
On the other side, the Sixers are dealing with their own injury concerns. Dominick Barlow is questionable with a back contusion, while Joel Embiid and Paul George are both listed as probable with knee issues. If they suit up, it’ll be a significant boost for Philly, especially with the Cavs coming in shorthanded.
Friday’s game is shaping up to be a test of depth and resilience for Cleveland. With Garland and Merrill both sidelined, the Cavs will need others to step up - whether that’s Donovan Mitchell taking on more playmaking duties, or younger players seizing the opportunity to carve out a bigger role. It’s not an ideal situation, but it’s one that could reveal just how deep and adaptable this Cavaliers squad really is.