The Cleveland Cavaliers are heading into Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals with a battered lineup. The latest Cavs injury report has become a central focus for fans and analysts, as several key players face uncertainty. With the series already at a tough point, understanding who’s on the floor—and who’s not—is crucial for anyone following the playoffs.

Major Concerns on the Cavs Injury Report for Game 2

Hours before tipoff, the Cavaliers confirmed that Darius Garland (toe), Evan Mobley (ankle), and De'Andre Hunter (thumb) are all ruled out for Game 2 against the Indiana Pacers. This news follows their questionable designation just a day earlier. The loss of three regular starters is a heavy blow to Cleveland’s chances of leveling the series at home.

Head Coach Kenny Atkinson openly voiced his concerns following the outcomes of Game 1. He addressed both the nature of the injuries and the league's stance on playoff physicality. According to ESPN's detailed breakdown, there is significant worry about Mobley and Hunter's recoveries, with their injuries occurring during intense fourth-quarter plays. Garland’s continued absence further compounds the problem for the Cavs’ backcourt.

How Injuries Happened: Inside the Key Moments

Evan Mobley hurt his ankle late in Game 1 after landing awkwardly on Myles Turner’s foot while completing a crucial basket. Despite limping, Mobley continued until the game’s end. Atkinson later commented on the play, highlighting the need for officials to protect shooters as outlined by league rules.

De'Andre Hunter dislocated his thumb after a hard fall following a contested dunk attempt. Despite the injury, he also pushed through for the remainder of the game. Darius Garland, who remains out with a sprained big toe, has now missed four consecutive postseason games, impacting the team’s offensive flow. For a more in-depth injury timeline and player details, Yahoo Sports provides a comprehensive update on Garland, Mobley, and Hunter.

The Cavs' Adjusted Lineup and Next Steps

With three starters unavailable, Coach Atkinson turned to Donovan Mitchell, Ty Jerome, Dean Wade, Max Strus, and Jarrett Allen for the Game 2 starting lineup. This adjustment will put pressure on bench players to contribute both offensively and defensively.

Despite being short-handed, the Cavaliers came out aggressively at the start of Game 2, seeking to limit the Pacers’ explosive offense and regain control of the series. For real-time scores, analysis, and further injury report details, visit the Akron Beacon Journal’s Game 2 coverage.

What This Means for the Cavs Playoff Hopes

Losing Mobley, Hunter, and Garland at this stage is a serious setback. However, the Cavaliers have proven their depth in earlier rounds and will look to rally behind donovan Mitchell and the remaining starters. Jarrett Allen has expressed confidence in the team's ability to adapt, referencing their resilience shown in the Miami Heat series.

As the series continues, keep an eye on the Cavs injury report for new updates and potential returns. If Cleveland can weather this storm, their playoff toughness will become a defining theme of the postseason.

Stay tuned for more updates as we track every development in the Cleveland Cavaliers' playoff journey.