Overlooked Bucks prospect impresses in Cavaliers debut 5 Nov 24, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Chris Livingston (8) tries to reach a rebound against the Toronto Raptors during the first half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Overlooked Bucks prospect impresses in Cavaliers debut

Originally posted on WI Sports Heroics | By Nathan Yasis | Last updated Nov 26, 2025 9:56 AM ET

The Milwaukee Bucks never gave Chris Livingston meaningful early-season minutes, but Monday night against the Toronto Raptors, the Cleveland Cavaliers handed the Akron native an opportunity. Filling in for absent teammates, Livingston made an impact in his first NBA action of the season after signing a two-way contract with Cleveland several weeks ago. He capitalized on the chance, proving he can contribute when given the opportunity.

The Bucks missed giving Chris Livingston significant minutes, but his debut with the Cleveland Cavaliers impressed despite the loss. Coming off the bench for 14 minutes, Livingston scored seven points on 3-of-5 shooting, grabbed three rebounds, and led the team with a plus/minus of +12.

Chris Livingston did some nice things in his Cavs debut last night. Liked that he actually put the ball on the floor and put pressure on the interior. He even finished through contact. pic.twitter.com/hHtBkhF8nc

— Mack Perry (@DevaronPerry) November 25, 2025

Livingston opened his Cavaliers scoring with a strong and-one finish at the rim. He attacked the paint two more times, converting a layup and a floater. Despite Cleveland’s 110-99 loss, he stood out for his efficiency and impact in limited minutes.

These were significant minutes, far from garbage time. Livingston contributed during Cleveland’s fourth-quarter rally, helping the team trim Toronto’s lead by eight points while he was on.

Former Bucks Chris Livingston showing flashes in his new home

Livingston’s chance with the Cavaliers came only because of a long list of injuries that left the team down seven players. In Milwaukee, he rarely saw double-digit minutes, reaching that mark just four times in 42 games across two seasons. Even with the Bucks facing their own string of injuries in recent years, they never relied on the young forward for more than emergency relief.

The 22-year-old Livingston was coming off a strong pair of G-League performances for the Cleveland Charge in which he averaged 20 points and 7.5 rebounds.

Overlooked Bucks prospect impresses in Cavaliers debut 6 Mar 24, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Chris Livingston (7) during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

The newest member of the Cavaliers had been coming off a strong stretch with the Cleveland Charge in the G League, averaging 20 points and 7.5 rebounds. His solid NBA performance with the Cavaliers could earn him another opportunity and will certainly keep him on the team’s radar.

This article first appeared on WI Sports Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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