Cleveland Cavaliers 25/26 NBA Preview | Darius Garland Injury, Jarrett Allen Concerns
The Cleveland Cavaliers enter the 2025-26 NBA season with big questions for both real basketball and fantasy hoops. Darius Garland’s injury clouds the start of the year, while Donovan Mitchell may be forced into a larger offensive role. Can Evan Mobley break out as a true franchise cornerstone? And what should fantasy basketball managers expect from Jarrett Allen under Kenny Atkinson’s new rotation?
Josh Lloyd, host of Locked On Fantasy Basketball, is joined by Danny Cunningham of @LockedOnCavs to break it all down. They discuss the Cavs’ projected starting lineup, how Garland’s absence impacts Mitchell, Mobley, and Max Strus, and whether Allen’s declining block numbers hurt his draft stock. Plus, the duo dives into Cleveland’s pace, rotation depth, and potential trade options.
📌 Topics include:
Darius Garland’s injury update and fantasy fallout
Kenny Atkinson’s coaching approach and minutes distribution
Donovan Mitchell’s usage bump and efficiency concerns
Jarrett Allen’s role and why caution is advised
Evan Mobley’s development and fantasy breakout potential
Get the edge in your fantasy drafts with in-depth Cleveland Cavaliers analysis.
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0:00 – Cleveland Cavaliers preview
2:45 – Darius Garland injury update
4:20 – Kenny Atkinson’s coaching approach
5:38 – Starting lineup possibilities
10:29 – Minutes distribution strategy
13:05 – Donovan Mitchell’s performance
17:25 – Jarrett Allen’s role
21:35 – Potential trade considerations
24:27 – Evan Mobley’s development
27:56 – Rotation player possibilities
30:10 – Closing remarks
4 comments
Thanks Josh, another top notch expert.
bad year for Cavs to lose Ty Jerome ?
I guess we'll see going young with Procter & Porter works out
Who would you value more in a dynasty points league, Jarrett Allen or Hartenstien?
What does josh and regular positive affirmations have in common? Feels good hearing them 😌