Donovan Mitchell participated fully in the Cleveland Cavaliers' latest practice, meaning he is likely to return before the team hosts the Boston Celtics on Sunday afternoon. Cavs head coach Kenny Atkinson offered an update on the status of his All-Star guards as well as Max Strus, Jarrett Allen and Dean Wade.
Both Mitchell and Wade were fully engaged in Friday's session, with Strus performing at about "90 percent" and Allen not practicing.
After missing the last four games with a right groin strain, Mitchell appears to be on his way to returning for Cleveland's showdown with the Celtics. The same can be said for Wade, who hasn't played in Milwaukee since Feb. 25 because of a right ankle sprain.
Strus got even tougher on Friday, and there is light at the end of the tunnel, although he likely won't suit up for the Boston game in two days.
“He could have gone higher,” Atkinson said. "He and I got closer today in a loving way. He's always going to challenge you. He always brings an energy. He gives 100 percent every practice. Obviously we missed the player, but we missed his personality.
"He and James [Harden] Worked out in a small group before starting, so that was good. It makes you feel optimistic, doesn't it? You are becoming complete. If you look at it that way, adding Max is like adding another excellent free agent.
How serious is Jarrett Allen's injury for the Cavs?
Atkinson assured the media that Allen's right knee injury was "absolutely not long-term."
“He did some conditioning and treatment, so we'll see about that,” Atkinson said. “If he is out, it is a short-term thing.”
Allen suffered the illness while attempting to grab a rebound in the opening moments of the second half against the Detroit Pistons and was ruled out for the remainder of Tuesday's contest.
It doesn't look like the Cavs' big man will suit up on Sunday, but we'll get a clearer picture on Saturday.
