The Cleveland Cavaliers are finally starting to look like a complete team again - and that’s not something we’ve been able to say much this season.
For the first time in a while, the Cavs’ injury report isn’t a scroll of setbacks and day-to-day designations. Heading into their matchup with the Houston Rockets, Cleveland lists just two standard-contract players as unavailable: Max Strus (foot) and Larry Nance Jr. (calf).
Two-way players Chris Livingston and Luke Travers are also out, but they’re currently with the G League. That’s it.
Everyone else is suiting up - and for a team that’s been juggling absences all season long, that’s a big deal.
Evan Mobley’s return on Christmas against the Knicks was the headline, and for good reason. The big man bounced back from a calf strain in just 14 days - a surprisingly quick turnaround for an injury that can be tricky to manage.
He came off the bench in his return, playing under a minutes restriction, but his presence alone changes the dynamic of this team. Mobley’s defensive instincts, rim protection, and growing offensive game are central to what the Cavs want to be.
Even in limited minutes, his impact was felt.
Sam Merrill is another name that’s quietly been crucial. After missing time with a hand injury, Merrill returned last week and immediately gave the offense a spark.
His off-ball movement, floor spacing, and confident three-point shooting have helped open things up for everyone else. He’s not just a shooter - he’s a rhythm-setter.
When Merrill is moving and knocking down shots, the Cavs’ offense hums.
And while Max Strus remains sidelined, it’s worth noting that he brings a lot of the same qualities Merrill does - with a bit more size and defensive versatility. When Strus is healthy again, Cleveland will have two sharpshooters who can stretch the floor and keep defenses honest. That’s a luxury most teams don’t have.
Health has been the Cavs’ biggest opponent over the past few seasons. Every time it feels like they’re ready to hit their stride, someone goes down.
This year has been no different - they’ve used more starting lineups than any team in the league, a clear sign of how much they’ve had to adapt on the fly. That kind of instability makes it tough to build continuity, let alone momentum.
But now, with the roster inching closer to full strength, there’s a real opportunity here. A shorter injury list means more consistency in rotations, more chemistry on the court, and a better chance for this group to find its identity.
The Cavs have been grinding through the early part of the season, weathering absences and adjusting on the fly. Now, with Mobley back, Merrill re-integrated, and most of the core healthy, the pieces are finally starting to come together. If they can stay on the court, this team has the tools to make a serious push.
For the first time in a long time, Cleveland’s not just surviving - they’re positioned to build something.