The Cleveland Cavaliers are gearing up to face the Charlotte Hornets on Friday, riding high from a dominant win over the Brooklyn Nets. However, they'll be missing Evan Mobley, who has been ruled out for the matchup. Nae'Qwan Tomlin, on the other hand, is likely to suit up, listed as probable.
Mobley, recovering from his second left calf injury, had a decent showing in his return game, contributing 10 points, nine rebounds, two assists, and a block in just 19 minutes. It was his first outing with the team's new additions, and while he showed some rust early on, Cavs head coach Kenny Atkinson noted improvement as the game progressed. “His second stint was better, got a little more groove,” Atkinson remarked, highlighting Mobley’s defensive efforts despite the challenges of a minutes restriction.
Mobley himself expressed optimism about the team's chemistry. “Felt good to be back out there playing with some of the new guys as well, getting a connection with them,” he said. He praised the team's new dynamics, especially Dennis Schroder's ability to penetrate defenses, Keon Ellis's defensive prowess, and the impact of James Harden.
As for Tomlin, he's expected to play after missing the game against Brooklyn. Meanwhile, the Hornets are dealing with several absences.
Miles Bridges and Moussa Diabate are still serving suspensions from an altercation with the Detroit Pistons. Coby White, acquired from the Chicago Bulls, has yet to debut for Charlotte due to a left calf strain.
Additionally, the Hornets will be without Grant Williams and rookie Liam McNeely.
Injury Report:
- Nae'Qwan Tomlin: PROBABLE (left calf soreness)
- Evan Mobley: OUT (left calf injury management)
- Max Strus: OUT (left foot surgery)
- Riley Minix: OUT (two-way G League assignment)
- Miles Bridges: OUT (league suspension)
- Moussa Diabate: OUT (league suspension)
- Coby White: OUT (left calf strain)
- Grant Williams: OUT (right knee injury management)
- Liam McNeely: OUT (left ankle sprain)
The Cavaliers will look to continue their momentum, while the Hornets aim to navigate their roster challenges.