Cavs finally catch a break in schedule and plan to use it

The Cavaliers have been running on fumes. They have played more back-to-backs than anyone in the league, are tied for the most games played at 25, and have rarely fielded a consistent lineup.

Injuries, illness, and injury management have turned the first month and a half into a rotating cast.

Put all that together and it is not much of a recipe for sustainable success.

The good news is Cleveland finally hit the break in the schedule it desperately needed. The Cavs (14-11) will not play again until Friday, giving them five full days to regroup.

It is not the All-Star break, but it might feel like one inside the building.

“We need it. We need it. We need to reset,” coach Kenny Atkinson said after Saturday’s deflating loss to a shorthanded Warriors team. “Reset, get a little practice. The schedule is going to ease up and we will get back on track.”

The extra time should help Cleveland heal. Jarrett Allen has been dealing with a finger issue. Darius Garland continues to manage the aftereffects of offseason toe surgery. Craig Porter Jr. and Larry Nance Jr. have been banged up too. Even Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley, who are not listed on the injury report, have carried heavy loads.

“This is a good time to get some guys healthy,” Atkinson said. “Anytime you can buy days in the NBA so guys can heal up a little bit.”

The rest is welcome. What the Cavs do with it on Friday against the Wizards will matter more.