Is Donovan Mitchell playing tonight vs the Charlotte Hornets? Latest update on the Cleveland Cavaliers star's injury report (January 21, 2026)

The Cleveland Cavaliers are in Charlotte on January 21, 2026, dealing with a short-handed lineup. Several rotation players are unavailable, which places more responsibility on the players who remain active.One question matters most before tipoff. Donovan Mitchell is expected to play. He is not listed as out or questionable and is cleared for the game. With other key players missing, Cleveland will rely heavily on him to run the offense.

Charlotte Hornets vs Cleveland Cavaliers Game Details and Injury Context (January 21, 2026)

The game tips off at 7:00 p.m. ET at Spectrum Center. The broadcast will be available on ESPN, FDSSE, and FDSOH.Cleveland Cavaliers enter the game without Darius Garland, who is sidelined by a right great toe sprain.

Max Strus remains out following left foot surgery, and Sam Merrill is unavailable due to a right hand sprain. These absences remove much of the Cavaliers’ backcourt depth and shooting.Charlotte is also missing key contributors. Mason Plumlee is out after right groin surgery, while KJ Simpson is sidelined with a left hip flexor injury. Rookie forward Tidjane Salaun is listed as probable despite left Achilles soreness.

Donovan Mitchell’s Role Without Garland

With Garland out, Mitchell becomes the primary ball-handler and main scoring option. There is no minutes restriction reported, and the team expects him to carry a large share of the offense.In Cleveland’s recent game against Oklahoma City on January 19, Donovan Mitchell scored 19 points. His shot was inconsistent, but he remained involved throughout and continued to create chances for teammates. That same approach is expected again in Charlotte.

Clevaland Cavaliers vs Charlotte Hornets Season Stats Comparison

Also read: Is LaMelo Ball playing tonight vs the Cleveland Cavaliers? Latest update on the Charlotte Hornets star's injury report (January 21, 2026)

Matchup Outlook

Charlotte’s defense has allowed guards to get into the lane, which plays into Mitchell’s game. That is why scoring lines above 26.5 points have drawn attention.The Hornets will lean on LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller to keep pace. For Cleveland, the plan is simple. If Mitchell controls the game, the Cavaliers have a clear path to a road win.