The 2025-26 regular season has not been perfect for the Cleveland Cavaliers. After enjoying the league's leading offense last season, the continued absence of Max Strus, Darius Garland's injury perils and stretches without Sam Merrill and other contributors has hampered the Cavs' early successes.
Through 19 games, Cleveland holds the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference with a 12-7 record. The Cavs have had 11 different starting lineups in those games, forced on by the revolving door of injuries. A rough season's beginning may leave plenty for the Cavaliers and the fan base to disparage. Still, their endurance through the bevvy of injuries has been highlighted by the rise of one newly-minted fan favorite.