Cavaliers' Mario Hezonja: In mix for rotational spot
Rotowire
Head coach Kenny Atkinson said Hezonja is "going to be in the mix" for a spot in Cleveland's rotation to begin the 2026-27 campaign, Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com reports.
The Cavaliers essentially have four of their starting five confirmed, and Peyton Watson (hamstring) appears likely to slot into that fifth spot. However, training camp will be important in determining who else fills out the rotation. Hezonja, the fifth overall pick in 2015, hasn't played in the NBA since the 2019-20 season but has plenty of experience overseas. The Cavaliers boast a deep roster heading into training camp, and players like Sam Merrill, Jaylon Tyson and Nae'Qwan Tomlin are all likely to challenge Hezonja for minutes. Furthermore, Craig Porter, Tyrese Proctor and rookie Meleek Thomas will also be competing for playing time off the bench.
... See More... See Less
Cavaliers' Mario Hezonja: Strong showing for Croatia
Rotowire
Hezonja recorded 28 points (8-13 FG, 0-5 3Pt, 12-15 FT), three rebounds and seven assists in 30 minutes during Croatia's 115-80 win over Latvia in Thursday's FIBA World Cup qualifier.
The 31-year-old is returning to the NBA for the first time since 2019-20 after signing a one-year contract with Cleveland this offseason. Hezonja should have an opportunity to carve out a role on the wing following the departures of Max Strus and Keon Ellis, though he'll have to compete with Peyton Watson, Jaylon Tyson and others for minutes. After spending the last six seasons overseas, Hezonja's performance during training camp and the preseason should provide a better indication of whether he'll have enough of a role to warrant fantasy consideration.
... See More... See Less
Cavaliers' Mario Hezonja: Heading to Cleveland
Rotowire
Hezonja agreed to a one-year, $2.8 million contract with the Cavaliers on Sunday, Shams Charania of ESPN reports.
Hezonja is set to return to the NBA for the first time since the 2019-20 campaign after spending the past six seasons overseas. The 2015 first-round pick earned 2025-26 Liga ACB MVP honors after a standout season with Real Madrid. In his return stateside, the 31-year-old is likely to serve as forward depth off the bench for the Cavaliers and could see his role increase if his scoring ability from Europe translates well.
