The Cleveland Cavaliers are looking to get back on track after a disappointing loss to the New York Knicks. They hope they can take down the Charlotte Hornets.
A loss to Charlotte, who holds a worse record, would be very discouraging. Unfortunately, the Cavs could be short-handed for their next game.
Writing for Cleveland.com, Ethan Sands listed the four players who are ruled out for Monday’s match.
“Khalifa Diop (G League – On Assignment)
Sam Merrill (right elbow injury management)
Nae’Qwan Tomlin (low back stress reaction)
Jaylon Tyson (right ankle sprain)
Ernest Udeh Jr. (G League – Two-Way),” Sands wrote.
The Cavaliers are likely happy that their biggest stars aren’t going to be missing the game, but they would gladly receive the assistance of players such as Sam Merrill and Jaylon Tyson. They have both proven themselves as strong shooters.
The Cavs have lost three of their last four games. Yes, two of those losses were against the Oklahoma City Thunder, and one was against the reigning champions, the New York Knicks, but Cleveland fans are starting to feel nervous.
It’s not embarrassing to lose to such great teams, but those are also the same teams that will be dominant in the postseason. If the Cavaliers can’t beat them now, what chance do they have during the playoffs or the Finals?
That is why staying healthy is so important, even though it’s the beginning of the season. It sets a tone and helps the roster find a rhythm it can rely on for the rest of the year. Fortunately, the Cavaliers probably have enough firepower and defense to keep the Hornets in check, even with this list of missing players.
However, they’ll be facing off against the Knicks again on Wednesday, in Madison Square Garden. They will want all the help they can get for that game.
Hopefully, these five players will all be ready and able to suit up in a few days.
NEXT: Reporter Has A Simple Fix For The Cavs’ Rebounding Problem
