Cleveland Cavaliers vs Orlando Magic injury report: Who's playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more(January 26, 2026)

The Cleveland Cavaliers host the Orlando Magic on January 26, 2026, with both teams trying to steady themselves in a crowded Eastern Conference race. The standings are tight, and this game carries weight for playoff positioning, especially with the season moving toward its second half.These teams met just days ago, when Cleveland pulled away for a comfortable win. Orlando now gets a quick chance to respond, while the Cavaliers look to protect their home floor and stay inside the top five in the East. Injuries on both sides are shaping the conversation more than tactics.Cleveland is dealing with several absences that affect its guard and wing rotation. Darius Garland remains out with a right great toe sprain. Max Strus is still sidelined following left foot surgery for a Jones fracture. Chris Livingston and Luke Travers are unavailable on G-League two-way deals.There are also question marks. De’Andre Hunter is listed as questionable due to right knee soreness, and Sam Merrill is questionable with a right hand sprain. If both miss the game, Donovan Mitchell will again be asked to handle more of the offense and playmaking.Orlando Magic’s list is shorter but still significant. Franz Wagner is out with an ankle injury, leaving a gap on the wing. Colin Castleton is also sidelined on a two-way contract. With Wagner out, the Magic will lean more heavily on Paolo Banchero and Jalen Suggs to generate offense.Both teams may need to adjust rotations depending on late injury decisions.Cleveland’s bench depth becomes more important if Hunter and Merrill are ruled out, with players like Dean Wade taking on larger roles.Cleveland Cavaliers have won eight of the last 14 meetings between the teams over the past three seasons. The Cavaliers also come in on a three-game winning streak, highlighted by a 14-point win over Orlando on Saturday. At home, Cleveland is 15-11 this season.The all-time series remains close, with Cleveland holding a 67-62 edge. Orlando’s 9-11 road record adds another challenge in this rematch.Cleveland ranks 10th in net rating and has been efficient shooting the ball. Orlando sits closer to the middle of the league but continues to rely on getting to the free-throw line.The matchup points toward a controlled, physical game, with the total projected around 226.5 points. Cleveland is favored by about 4.5 points, driven by home-court advantage and recent results. Orlando will need a strong night from Banchero to keep pace, while Mitchell’s workload could again decide the result. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET.