Cavs are prioritizing star players long-term health for playoffs

The Cleveland Cavaliers have seen one too many seasons come off the rails due to injuries. They’re managing the 82-game schedule to the best of their ability, putting health in the postseason above everything else. That’s why Donovan Mitchell isn’t being rushed back to return from a groin injury.

“If it were a playoff game he’d play today,” Cavs head coach Kenny Atkinson said before Cleveland’s Tuesday night game against the Detroit Pistons. “We don’t want this thing nagging him… we want him healthy for the playoffs.”

Mitchell has missed the previous four games with his groin injury, including this latest one versus Detroit.

It’s understandable that the organization is feeling pressure to get Mitchell back on the floor. Not only does Mitchell want to play for himself, but there’s also a sense of urgency to make the most out of the final games of the season, considering all of the new pieces on the roster. Each game missed to injury is an opportunity lost to build chemistry with James Harden.

Nonetheless, nothing matters if Mitchell isn’t able to play or is limited in the playoffs. Soft tissue injuries are nothing to play with — and nobody wants this issue to linger longer than it has to. Missing a few games in March is preferable to losing anything in April, May, or even June.

Of course, whether or not a player gets injured is out of anyone’s control. How you manage that injury, however, is entirely your decision. The Cavs are electing to be as cautious as possible. Let’s hope that pays off in the long run.