The Cleveland Cavaliers are poised for a boost with the return of Evan Mobley, who is scheduled to play for the first time since early December following his recovery from left knee surgery, during Monday’s NBA action. The Cavs, performing well despite missing two key starters — Mobley and Darius Garland — are set to host the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday night.
Mobley’s last game was against Orlando on December 6. The 22-year-old underwent arthroscopic surgery on December 18 and has been in rehabilitation since. His return is sooner than anticipated, as the Cavaliers had previously projected he could be sidelined for up to two months.
After participating in Monday morning’s shootaround, Mobley is listed as questionable on the injury report but is expected to play, barring any setbacks during pregame warmups. Cavaliers coach J.B. Bickerstaff will likely monitor Mobley’s playing time as he gradually regains conditioning.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Evan Mobley, Cleveland Cavaliers Updates
The Cavaliers faced challenges when Mobley’s injury coincided with Garland breaking his jaw on December 15. With both starters out, there were concerns for the team’s prospects. However, the Cavaliers have managed an impressive 14-4 record in their absence, with Garland also nearing a return after having wiring removed from his jaw.
Isaac Okoro, a forward for the Cavaliers, attributes their success to playing unselfish basketball with good ball movement and high energy. He highlights the team’s resilience and a collective mentality never to give up, emphasizing that players are ready to step up and leverage their strengths.
“We’ve played unselfish basketball,” Okoro said. “The ball is moving, everyone is touching it and everyone is playing with a ton of energy. We knew we had guys who could step up and play to their strengths. We have a resilient, never-give-up mentality.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Evan Mobley, Cleveland Cavaliers Updates
Mobley, a standout at 6-foot-11 and recognized as one of the NBA’s top interior defenders, was averaging 16.0 points, 10.5 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.7 blocks over 21 games before his injury. However, he will need to find a way not to disrupt Allen’s momentum, who has averaged 16.4 points, 12.0 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in 22 games without Mobley in the lineup.
