Spurs vs Cavaliers Injury Report: Who’s Playing in Friday’s Shorthanded Clash?

The Spurs vs Cavaliers injury report features major absences on both sides ahead of their meeting in Cleveland on Friday, December 5, 2025. A total of 12 players have been ruled out with several starters unavailable. The matchup will test roster depth as both teams prepare for a demanding road contest.

San Antonio enters the night without Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle, Jordan McLaughlin, Luke Kornet, Harrison Ingram, and Riley Minix. Cleveland also faces a long list of injuries, with Evan Mobley listed as questionable. Friday’s game now stands as one of the most shorthanded meetings for either team this season.

Full Breakdown of the Spurs vs Cavaliers Injury Report

The Spurs confirmed that Wembanyama remains out due to the calf strain that sidelined him on November 16. Castle continues to recover from a hip flexor strain, while McLaughlin deals with a hamstring issue. Kornet was downgraded to out after sustaining left ankle soreness in the Spurs’ December 3 win at Orlando. Ingram and Minix remain with the Austin Spurs as part of their development assignments.

Cleveland will be missing Jarrett Allen due to a finger injury, Darius Garland with a toe issue, Sam Merrill with a hand injury, Larry Nance Jr. due to a calf strain, Tyrese Proctor for personal reasons, and Max Strus due to a foot injury. The Cavaliers also listed Evan Mobley as questionable, adding uncertainty to their rotation. These updates were detailed in team reports and local media coverage, consistent with reporting standards from outlets such as Associated Press and Reuters.

The Spurs continue to rely heavily on De’Aaron Fox. Since his return on November 8, the team has gone 9–4. Fox is averaging 25 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 6.3 assists over 13 games. His production has helped stabilize the offense during the extended absences of Wembanyama and Castle. Coach Mitch Johnson emphasized that the group has shown resilience and is not dependent on a single player to win games.

How the Absences Shape Friday’s Matchup

Both teams face significant lineup challenges. San Antonio must continue leaning on Fox to drive scoring and tempo. Harrison Barnes also noted that the team expects multiple contributors to step up. This mindset has carried the Spurs to back-to-back wins, a sign of growing consistency.

Cleveland’s missing personnel places pressure on its remaining starters and bench depth. The questionable status of Mobley adds further uncertainty. If Mobley cannot play, Cleveland loses a key interior defender and rebounder, which could shift the balance toward San Antonio.

The game now becomes a depth and execution contest. Both coaching staffs must adjust rotations while preparing for extended minutes from key role players. Friday’s meeting may not showcase full rosters, but it highlights the early-season grind and the importance of adaptability.

The Spurs vs Cavaliers injury report underscores how both teams enter Friday with major hurdles. San Antonio seeks to extend momentum, while Cleveland looks to stay competitive despite major losses. The shorthanded clash may reveal which team manages adversity best.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who is out for the Spurs on Friday?

San Antonio will be without Wembanyama, Castle, McLaughlin, Kornet, Ingram, and Minix. These absences reduce depth at multiple positions.

Q2: Which Cavaliers players are unavailable?

Cleveland will be missing Allen, Garland, Merrill, Nance Jr., Proctor, and Strus. Evan Mobley is questionable.

Q3: How has De’Aaron Fox performed since returning?

Fox has averaged 25 points on 49 percent shooting since November 8. He has helped the Spurs win nine of their last thirteen games.

Q4: How could Mobley’s status affect Cleveland?

If Mobley cannot play, Cleveland loses size and rim protection. The team would need more production from its remaining forwards.

Q5: What time is tipoff?

Tipoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Central at Rocket Arena. The game airs on NBA League Pass and local broadcast partners.