The Cleveland Cavaliers are gearing up for their upcoming matchup against the Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center, with plenty of excitement and anticipation surrounding the game. As one of the strongest teams in the Eastern Conference, the Cavaliers are aiming to maintain their momentum. However, the spotlight is on the status of key players, particularly Isaac Okoro, who has been dealing with a knee issue.

Will he suit up for this pivotal clash? And how will his presence—or absence—affect the outcome of the game? To get a better idea, let’s dive into the latest injury updates, projected lineups, and depth charts for both teams as they prepare for this important Eastern Conference showdown.

Injury Reports & Depth Charts for Cavaliers vs. Hornets

Injuries have posed significant challenges for both the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Charlotte Hornets this season, though their circumstances differ. The Cavaliers are contending with a few key uncertainties, chief among them Isaac Okoro’s knee issue. Listed as day-to-day, his status for tonight’s game remains uncertain. His defensive prowess and versatility are vital to the team’s success. Additionally, Craig Porter Jr. is also listed as day-to-day due to an illness, adding to the Cavaliers’ injury woes.

The Hornets, however, are grappling with a far more extensive injury list, which has compounded their struggles this season. Star point guard LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges are sidelined with calf and knee injuries, respectively. Tidjane Salaun is out with a left ankle sprain, while Tre Mann is dealing with a back issue.

Furthermore, Grant Williams has been ruled out for the season with a knee injury. These setbacks have left Charlotte shorthanded and contributed to their position at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings.

Cavaliers Depth Chart

Hornets Depth Chart

Can the Cavaliers maintain their dominance without Isaac Okoro?

The Cleveland Cavaliers remain atop the Eastern Conference with an impressive 20-3 record, despite facing persistent injury challenges. Donovan Mitchell has been a standout, averaging 24.5 points per game, while Darius Garland leads the team in playmaking with 6.6 assists per game.

Evan Mobley’s development has also been crucial, highlighted by his three three-pointers in the Cavaliers’ recent 126-114 victory over the Denver Nuggets. Having won 7 of their last 10 games, Cleveland continues to display their resilience. However, with Isaac Okoro potentially sidelined due to his knee issue, their defensive prowess could be put to the test, particularly against a Hornets team known for its offensive potential.

The Charlotte Hornets, meanwhile, find themselves at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings with a 6-16 record. With their top scorer, LaMelo Ball sidelined, rookie Brandon Miller has stepped up admirably, scoring 20+ points in nine consecutive games. However, consistency remains an issue for Charlotte. The absence of Miles Bridges adds to their woes, forcing the team to rely heavily on players like Miller, Cody Martin, and Mark Williams to remain competitive.

As both teams grapple with injury concerns, the spotlight is on whether the Cavaliers can continue their dominant season without Okoro and other key players. They will need Mitchell, Garland, and Mobley to shoulder additional responsibilities and maintain their momentum. On the other hand, the Hornets, despite their struggles, have seen impressive individual performances from Miller and will aim to leverage those efforts to challenge Cleveland’s defense.

Will the Cavaliers’ depth and star power be enough to overcome Okoro’s potential absence, or can the Hornets capitalize on their home-court advantage and pull off an upset? The answer will unfold on the court tonight.