Cavaliers Navigate Midseason Challenges, Eye Playoff Positioning
CLEVELAND, January 23, 2026 – The Cleveland Cavaliers enter a critical stretch of the 2025-26 season holding a 25-20 record, good for second place in the Central Division and sixth in the Eastern Conference. Despite battling a string of injuries to key rotation players, the team maintains strong playoff odds as they prepare to host the Sacramento Kings tonight at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
Current Standings & Season Projections
The Cavaliers have built their record on a potent offense, ranking 5th in the league with 119.1 points per game. Defensive consistency has been a challenge, as they rank 21st in opponent points allowed (117.1 per game). Analytical models project a strong finish, with a most likely final record of 48-34 and a 95.8% probability of making the postseason. However, winning the competitive Central Division, led by the Detroit Pistons (32-10), remains a long shot with odds around 3.5%.
| Metric | Status |
|---|---|
| Current Record | 25-20 (.556) |
| Conference Rank | 6th (Eastern) |
| Division Rank | 2nd (Central) |
| Playoff Probability | 95.8% |
| Projected Final Record | 48-34 |
| NBA Title Odds | +3000 (0.7% probability) |
Key Player Performance & Injury Report
All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell continues to carry the offensive load, averaging 28.9 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game. Evan Mobley provides a versatile frontcourt presence with averages of 17.7 points and 8.7 rebounds. The team’s depth is currently being tested, as several rotation players are sidelined. Starting point guard Darius Garland (toe) remains out, while sharpshooter Sam Merrill (hand) has been ruled out for tonight’s game. Wing Max Strus (foot) and forward Chris Livingston (wrist) are also on the injured list. Forward Dean Wade recently returned from a knee injury.
Upcoming Schedule & Immediate Outlook
Following tonight’s matchup with the Kings, the Cavaliers embark on a quick road trip to face the Orlando Magic on Saturday before returning home for a rematch on Monday. The upcoming week presents a challenging but manageable slate as the team looks to solidify its playoff positioning before the February trade deadline. Maintaining health and finding consistency on defense will be paramount for a deeper postseason run.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Cavaliers’ odds to win the NBA Championship?
As of January 23, 2026, sportsbooks list the Cleveland Cavaliers at +3000 to win the 2026 NBA Championship, implying a 3.23% probability.
Who is the Cavaliers’ leading scorer?
Guard Donovan Mitchell is the team’s leading scorer, averaging 28.9 points per game through 45 contests this season.
When is the Cavaliers’ next game?
The Cavaliers host the Sacramento Kings tonight, January 23, at 7:30 PM ET at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio.