Cavaliers Updates: Lonzo Ball Targets Back-to-Back Action; Strus, Garland Progressing
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CLEVELAND — Cleveland Cavaliers guard Lonzo Ball said on media day that he could play in both games of a back-to-back set this season, something he has not done since the 2020-21 campaign with the Chicago Bulls. The 26-year-old has undergone three knee surgeries and missed two and a half seasons. Ball noted that appearing on consecutive nights “is possible,” although the topic has not yet been finalized with the team’s medical staff.
Cleveland obtained Ball from Chicago in an offseason deal that sent former lottery pick Isaac Okoro to the Bulls. The Cavaliers expect the veteran to supply additional ball-handling, perimeter defense and experience alongside backcourt starters Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell.
Max Strus Walking Without Boot
Starting wing Max Strus is five weeks removed from foot surgery to repair a Jones fracture and is now out of a protective boot. “I’m in a good spot right now. Everything seems to be healing,” he said. Strus will have a six-week checkup next week and did not offer a specific return date. A comeback before the All-Star break remains uncertain, though the team is encouraged by his recovery.
Darius Garland Nearing Full Clearance
Guard Darius Garland, who underwent offseason surgery for a turf toe injury that lingered through last year’s playoffs, said rehabilitation “has been going really well.” Garland is already back on the court and increasing his workload but withheld an exact target date, suggesting only that he has one in mind.
The Cavaliers begin training camp this week and have not issued medical clearances for Ball, Strus or Garland.
Source: Hoops Wire
