The Cleveland Cavaliers have dealt with plenty of injuries all season. Evan Mobley and Darius Garland were sidelined for extended periods, while sharpshooter Max Strus has yet to debut for Cleveland this season.
Amid injuries, Cleveland has struggled mightily. Despite finishing last season with the No.1 seed in the Eastern Conference, through their first 33 games, the Cavaliers are eighth in the conference.
Last season saw the Cavs finish a 64-18 record, 46 games over .500. So far this season, the Cavaliers are 17-16, nearly reaching their loss total from last season already.
When Sam Merrill returned, the Cavaliers saw a bit of a resurgence in their offense, truly showcasing what a sharpshooter can do for Cleveland.
Unfortunately though, ahead of Monday night's game, head coach Kenny Atkinson revealed discouraging news on the return of Max Strus.
“The timeline is what it is,” Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson said. “There’s no earlier or later.”
Strus has been sidelined for the last four months due to a fracture in his foot and is not yet ready to re-join team practice.
With the Cavaliers shooting 34.9% from deep (21st in the league), they could use Strus' efficiency back in the lineup.
Cleveland continues their road trip Monday night against the San Antonio Spurs, in desperate need of a victory. The Cavs have lost five of their last seven games with their only wins coming against non-playoff teams (New Orleans and Charlotte).
Following tonight's game, Cleveland will return home for a three-game homestand beginning Wednesday.
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