Cavaliers' Mobley Set to Return After All-Star Break

Rookie big man expected to rejoin team for second half of season after calf injury

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Cleveland Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson announced that Evan Mobley is projected to rejoin the team immediately after the All-Star break. Mobley has been sidelined with a calf injury, and his return timeline is now clearer as he continues to recover.

Why it matters

Mobley's return is a key development for the Cavaliers as they prepare for the second half of the season. The young big man's presence could improve the team's competitiveness and defensive capabilities against strong opponents.

The details

Mobley has missed the last seven contests since straining his left calf on January 26 during a victory over the Orlando Magic. This marks his second calf injury, as he was previously out for five games in December due to a Grade 1 strain to the same muscle. Despite this setback, Mobley appears to be progressing well and is expected to resume practice after the break. Should this occur, he could be available for the Cavaliers' opening game of the season's second half on February 19 against the Brooklyn Nets.

  • Mobley suffered a calf injury on January 26.
  • Mobley has missed the last seven games.
  • Mobley was previously out for five games in December due to a calf injury.
  • Mobley is expected to rejoin the team immediately after the All-Star break.
  • The Cavaliers' first game after the break is on February 19 against the Brooklyn Nets.

The players

Evan Mobley

A rookie big man for the Cleveland Cavaliers who has been sidelined with a calf injury.

Kenny Atkinson

The head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Thomas Bryant

A player for the Cleveland Cavaliers whose minutes may be reduced upon Mobley's return.

Jarrett Allen

A player for the Cleveland Cavaliers whose minutes may be reduced upon Mobley's return.

Jaylon Tyson

A player for the Cleveland Cavaliers whose minutes may be reduced upon Mobley's return.

Keon Ellis

A player for the Cleveland Cavaliers whose minutes may be reduced upon Mobley's return.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Mobley has been sidelined with a calf injury, and his return timeline is now clearer as he continues to recover.”

— Kenny Atkinson, Head Coach, Cleveland Cavaliers (theconwaybulletin.com)

What’s next

Mobley is expected to resume practice after the All-Star break and could be available for the Cavaliers' first game back on February 19 against the Brooklyn Nets.

The takeaway

Mobley's return is a significant development for the Cavaliers as they look to improve their competitiveness and defensive capabilities in the second half of the season. The team will need to carefully manage minutes and rotations to reintegrate the young big man effectively.