Key Member Of Cavaliers Injured In Victory

The Cleveland Cavaliers pulled off a dominant victory over the Detroit Pistons on Friday night. Darius Garland refound his shot, Evan Mobley stuffed the stat sheet making franchise history, and the bench provided a massive spark in the victory.

However, it wasn’t all positive in the win. Isaac Okoro exited the game in the third quarter with back tightness and never returned to the game. He only played 24 minutes but still managed to score 12 points, shot 44% (4-9) from the floor, dished out four assists, blocked a shot, and recorded a steal.

The Cavaliers were already missing Donovan Mitchell and Caris LeVert against the Pistons due to injuries they’re working through. This moved Okoro into the starting lineup where he has succeeded when called upon to do so.

Okoro has been in such a groove over the last two months anything to disrupt that now could be damaging. Not to mention, he’s putting together a career year on the floor. Okoro is averaging 9.3 points, 3.0, rebounds, and 2.0 assists a game.

Mar 1, 2024; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) dribbles defended by Cleveland Cavaliers forward Isaac Okoro (35) in the first half at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports © Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

However, it’s the efficiency that has really pointed to the jump he’s made. Okoro is shooting a career-high 50% from the floor and 40% from behind the arc.

Cleveland’s depth has been a strong part of their roster the entire season. They’ll be called upon once again if these injuries to Mitchell, Okoro, and LeVert are something that will keep them sidelined for the foreseeable future.