Cavs looking to extend streak without Donovan Mitchell, guard rests against Hornets

CLEVELAND – The Cleveland Cavaliers are 14-0 and look to extend their streak even further on Sunday against the Charlotte Hornets – but they will have to do so without star guard Donovan Mitchell, who has been ruled out for the game.

Mitchell will have Sunday off to rest while the Cavs manage his workload.

Playing without Mitchell will pose a challenge for Cleveland. The guard averaged 24.6 points per game, 4.4 rebounds and 4.1 assists through the first 14 games while shooting 46.9% from the field.

But the Cavs have been strong outside of Mitchell, with Darius Garland putting up impressive numbers on the field this season. Averaging 21.1 points, 2.2 rebounds, 6.6 assists and shooting 53.1% from the field, Garland has returned to his All-Star ways for Cleveland so far this season.

In addition to Mitchell, the Cavs also ruled out Sam Merrill for Sunday’s game. Merrill is dealing with left ankle inflammation and will be sidelined while he works on the condition.

However, Cleveland should get big man Evan Mobley back on the field. Mobley was unable to play in the Cavs’ final game against the Bulls on Friday due to illness. He is now considered likely for Sunday’s game against the Hornets.

The Cavs and Bulls tip off at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse at 6 p.m