The Cavaliers, Bulls and Bucks released several key injury and roster updates on Tuesday, offering a clearer picture of where each team stands heading into the final stretch of the regular season.
Cavaliers: Strus progresses after foot surgery
Cleveland announced that wing Max Strus has moved from rehab to individual on-court workouts after offseason surgery on his left foot. Recent imaging showed “progressive healing,” according to the team. Strus, 29, will follow a structured ramp-up program that includes controlled team activities with both the Cavaliers and their G League affiliate. With approximately five and a half weeks left in the regular season, head coach Kenny Atkinson still expects Strus to return before the postseason.
Bulls: Ivey sidelined for five-game trip
Jaden Ivey will not accompany Chicago on its five-game Western Conference swing that begins Thursday in Phoenix and ends next Friday in Los Angeles. Despite the absence, head coach Billy Donovan said the organization has not discussed shutting the guard down for the year. Donovan added that forward Patrick Williams (quad) and center Jalen Smith (calf) could see action during the trip.
The Bulls have dropped 12 of their past 13 contests, yet guard Josh Giddey remains optimistic about a swift turnaround. Giddey pointed to his experience in Oklahoma City, where the Thunder rose from the league’s worst record to the top of the standings within two seasons.
Bucks: Rollins makes Most Improved case
Ryan Rollins told Andscape’s Marc J. Spears he has revived his NBA career after a turbulent start that included being waived by Washington in January 2024 while facing seven counts of petit larceny. Now a fourth-year guard in Milwaukee, Rollins is averaging 16.8 points, 5.4 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 1.5 steals on .466/.411/.761 shooting, putting him in the conversation for the league’s Most Improved Player award.
“I always knew I was this good,” Rollins said. “I just needed the opportunity and a coach who trusted me enough to let me work through my mistakes and grow.”
Source: HoopsRumors
