Fresh off a 64-18 season in their first year under coach Kenny Atkinson, the Cavaliers announced their 20-man training camp roster on Friday.
The headliners are the usual suspects — Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen — the group that powered Cleveland to the East’s best record a year ago. But there are plenty of storylines beyond the stars.
The Cavs re-signed veteran forward Larry Nance Jr. this offseason and acquired Lonzo Ball in a trade, adding depth, defense and some much-needed playmaking. They also signed Thomas Bryant to bolster the frontcourt rotation.
Meanwhile, Max Strus — who may not return until around the All-Star break — leaves room for Sam Merrill to take on a bigger role on the wing.
Second-year guard Jaylon Tyson will be one to watch in camp. The Cavs have already challenged him to guard Mitchell in practice, viewing it as the perfect crash course for what they’ll need from him defensively.
Camp invite Killian Hayes is expected to get plenty of preseason opportunities with Garland limited and Mitchell’s workload managed — though his likeliest path is spending the year with the G League’s Charge.
Here’s the full roster headed to Florida:
Jarrett Allen, C, 6-11, 248, 9th season
Lonzo Ball, G, 6-6, 205, 7th
Thomas Bryant, C, 6-10, 255, 9th
Tristan Enaruna, F, 6-8, 220, Rookie
Darius Garland, G, 6-1, 186, 7th
Killian Hayes, G, 6-5, 195, 6th
De’Andre Hunter, F, 6-8, 221, 7th
Chaney Johnson, G, 6-7, 220, Rookie
Miller Kopp, F, 6-7, 220, Rookie
Sam Merrill, G, 6-4, 205, 6th
Donovan Mitchell, G, 6-3, 215, 9th
Evan Mobley, F/C, 7-0, 215, 5th
Larry Nance Jr., F/C, 6-7, 245, 11th
Norchad Omier, F, 6-7, 230, Rookie
Craig Porter Jr., G, 6-2, 185, 3rd
Tyrese Proctor, G, 6-4, 183, Rookie
Max Strus, G/F, 6-5, 215, 7th
Nae’Qwan Tomlin, F, 6-8, 205, 2nd
Luke Travers, F, 6-7, 208, 2nd
Jaylon Tyson, G, 6-6, 218, 2nd
Dean Wade, F, 6-9, 219, 7th
The Cavs will hold media day Monday in Cleveland before flying to Florida for camp.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!