The Cavaliers could be down four rotation players for their last game before the All-Star break.
The Cleveland Cavaliers will once again be shorthanded in their final game before the All-Star break. Cleveland will be without Isaac Okoro (shoulder) and Dean Wade (knee) for the contest, but they could also be down the services of Max Strus (ankle) and Ty Jerome (calf) as well. Both Strus and Jerome are questionable for Wednesday’s game against the Toronto Raptors.
Strus initially injured his right ankle in preseason and didn’t return to the court until the end of December. That same ankle is giving him problems again as he missed Monday’s win over the Minnesota Timberwolves with the same injury. His absence allowed De’Andre Hunter to start in his debut with the Cavs. Strus is averaging 8.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3 assists per game this season.
Jerome is a new addition to the injury report. The loss of Caris LeVert in the Hunter trade means that more of a playmaking burden is on Jerome. He’s shown this season that he can handle the increased responsibilities.
Craig Porter Jr. would likey see an increased role if Jerome is unable to go. Jerome is averaging 11.4 points and 3.4 assists per game on 51.6% shooting from the floor and 42.7% shooting from beyond the arc.
It isn’t surprising that the Cavs will be without Okoro and Wade. The Cavs are hoping that both will be able to return shortly after the All-Star break.
The Raptors injury report hasn’t been released yet for this game as they played Tuesday night against the Philadelphia 76ers. Brandon Ingram, who recently signed a contract extension with the team, will likely wait until after the break to make his debut.