Cavaliers’ Evan Mobley to Miss ‘Extended Time’ With Ankle Injury, per Report

The Cleveland Cavaliers forward appears set for his second lengthy absence of the season.

The Cleveland Cavaliers pulled out a win for the ages Tuesday, rallying from a 22-point deficit in the fourth quarter to beat the visiting Boston Celtics.

However, it came at a price.

Cavaliers forward Evan Mobley sprained his left ankle during the win and will miss “extended time,” according to a Wednesday afternoon report from Shams Charania, Jason Lloyd and Joe Vardon of The Athletic.

Per the trio, one source said “it will be some time” while another told them Mobley “will be out awhile.”

Mobley, 22, is averaging 15.6 points and 10.2 rebounds in 38 games this season. The USC product has already missed extended time this season after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery on Dec. 18.

The Cleveland Cavaliers are facing an injury absence by forward Evan Mobley for the second time this season :: Rick Osentoski / USA TODAY Sports

In 2022-23—his second pro season—Mobley was one of the best defenders in basketball, finishing third in the voting for Defensive Player of the Year. That performance came on the heels of a Rookie of the Year runner-up finish in ’22.

Cleveland is currently 40-21—good for third place in a crowded Eastern Conference race. The Cavaliers play at the Atlanta Hawks (27–34) on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. ET.