Hezonja recorded 13 points (5-9 FG, 2-4 3Pt, 1-1 FT), five rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks in 17 minutes during Sunday's 119-105 preseason win over Orlando.
Hezonja bounced back from a difficult preseason debut, contributing across the board while shooting efficiently from beyond the arc. The veteran forward displayed the versatility Cleveland hopes to utilize in its second unit, and Sunday's performance should help his case for consistent rotation minutes. However, his fantasy outlook will depend on how much playing time he can secure in a crowded Cavaliers rotation.
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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.
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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.
