Cavaliers Return to Rocket Arena to Face Struggling Kings
The Cleveland Cavaliers are set to welcome the Sacramento Kings to Rocket Arena on January 23, 2026, in what promises to be a compelling NBA matchup. This game brings together two franchises currently trending in opposite directions within the league standings.
Donovan Mitchell Cleared to Play Despite Team Injuries
Star guard Donovan Mitchell is not listed on the injury report and is expected to play without any limitations against Sacramento. This comes as crucial news for a Cavaliers squad dealing with significant absences in their rotation. Mitchell will shoulder increased responsibility, leading the offense from the opening possession.
The projected starting lineup for Cleveland features Mitchell alongside Jaylon Tyson, Dean Wade, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. This combination provides the Cavaliers with considerable interior size and enough perimeter shooting to effectively stretch the floor against Sacramento's defense.
Comprehensive Injury Reports for Both Teams
The Cleveland Cavaliers will be without several key players due to injuries. The absentees include Darius Garland (toe), Sam Merrill (hand), Max Strus (foot), Chris Livingston, and Luke Travers. These losses particularly thin Cleveland's backcourt depth, which will likely result in extended minutes and higher usage for Donovan Mitchell throughout the contest.
Sacramento's injury situation, while less extensive, remains impactful. Keegan Murray is ruled out with an ankle injury, depriving the Kings of one of their most reliable two-way performers. Other absences for Sacramento are primarily limited to G League assignments, giving them a relatively healthier roster compared to their opponents.
Team Records, Betting Odds, and Season Context
The Cavaliers enter this matchup with a record around 25-20, positioning them firmly within the Eastern Conference playoff picture. They are listed as heavy favorites with the point spread hovering near -20. Statistically, Cleveland ranks inside the league's top twelve in both offensive and defensive efficiency, demonstrating their balanced approach.
Conversely, the Sacramento Kings have struggled throughout the first half of the season, holding a record near 12-33. Their net rating sits around -9.3, reflecting their difficulties. The limited availability of Domantas Sabonis, who has appeared in just fourteen games this season, has significantly hampered Sacramento's ability to control the paint and establish interior presence.
Key Matchups and Player Projections
Donovan Mitchell is projected to approach thirty points while also handling substantial playmaking duties against Sacramento. The Kings will counter with their perimeter scoring trio of DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine, and Russell Westbrook, relying on their offensive firepower to remain competitive.
Inside the paint, Cleveland's formidable frontcourt pairing of Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen is expected to challenge Domantas Sabonis whenever he's on the floor and effectively limit Sacramento's second-chance opportunities.
Mitchell's Season Form and Historical Context
Donovan Mitchell is averaging 24.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game this season, along with 3.2 made three-pointers. He has maintained steady production during Cleveland's push through the middle portion of the schedule.
The Cavaliers completed a season sweep against the Kings last year, including a memorable 120-113 victory that remains prominent for fans. Tipoff for this January 23, 2026 contest is scheduled for 7:30 PM Eastern Time, with broadcasting available on FanDuel Sports Network Ohio and NBA League Pass.
