The Cleveland Cavaliers are gearing up for their home clash against the Indiana Pacers, but they may have to do so without one of their vital reserves.
Currently riding the crest of a wave with an NBA-leading 12-game winning streak, the Cavs are eager to maintain their momentum against the Pacers. In their last outing, Cleveland secured a thrilling 132-126 victory over the Toronto Raptors, showcasing the depth of their bench in a high-scoring affair. Meanwhile, the Pacers come into this matchup fresh off a solid win against the Golden State Warriors, triumphing 108-96.
This showdown marks the first of four meetings between these two teams this season, with the next encounter already on the horizon just a few days later in Indianapolis. This series is set to resemble a playoff battle, even in the midst of the regular season. However, the Cavs face a series of injuries that could hinder their quest to defend their home turf against a Pacers squad eager to dethrone them from the top of the NBA rankings.
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Indiana will miss the services of RayJ Dennis (NBA G League assignment), Isaiah Jackson (Achilles), Aaron Nesmith (ankle), and James Wiseman (Achilles) against Cleveland. Additionally, Enrique Freeman and Quenton Jackson are both on G League assignments and will be game-time decisions.
Despite these absences, the Pacers will field a strong team with their key players available. The offensive dynamo Tyrese Haliburton has been exceptional recently, effectively combining precision passing with off-the-dribble scoring to exploit defensive mismatches. The chemistry between Haliburton, Pascal Siakam, and Myles Turner will be instrumental for the Pacers, and it is crucial that the Cavs focus on containing this trio.
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The Cavaliers will also have their work cut out for them, as Indiana has demonstrated remarkable form since the start of 2025. The Pacers have held leads for an impressive 219 minutes in the last five games, trailing for a mere 10 minutes. Of the 20 quarters played, they have dominated almost every minute, leaving the Cavs well aware of the formidable challenge they will face.
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On the Cavaliers’ side, Emoni Bates, JT Thor, and Luke Travers will not feature, as they are all currently on assignment with the Cleveland Charge, the Cavs’ G League affiliate. While this isn’t unexpected given their need for development, it does represent a loss of depth for the team.
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Of greater concern for Cleveland is Ty Jerome, who is doubtful due to an illness. With cold and flu season in full swing, the Cavs will be hoping for a swift recovery for their dependable guard. Jerome’s absence would be a significant blow, as he averages 10.1 points, 3.4 assists, and 1.2 steals in just 17.6 minutes of play. Should Jerome miss out, expect the Cavs to rely more heavily on the likes of Caris LeVert, Max Strus, and Sam Merrill.
Rookie swingman Jaylon Tyson, fresh off a stellar performance for the Charge where he scored 23 points and grabbed 16 rebounds, could also be in line for increased minutes. If called upon, Tyson’s impressive shooting could provide a spark for the Cavs as they look to maintain their winning streak against the resilient Pacers.
