The team hasn't played its best basketball yet, partially because Darius Garland has only played in three games for the Cavs. That prompted NBA.com writer John Schuhmann to put the Cavs at No. 6 in his latest power rankings, one spot lower than the previous week.

Follow along with live updates from Monday's NBA action, featuring Bucks-Cavaliers on Peacock and the return of Paul George.

As the basketball landscape shifts toward curated paths and polished prospects, the league is quietly sustained by players who clawed their way up through the cracks. Two Cavaliers embody that old-school hunger — and their presence matters for Cleveland's contention and for the NBA itself.

Play-by-play action for the Milwaukee Bucks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers NBA game from November 17, 2025 on ESPN.

Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks will look to bounce back from Saturday's loss in a blowout to the Los Angeles Lakers when they face the Cleveland Cavs on Monday. Dealing with a lingering left knee injury, Antetokounmpo is listed as probable on the Bucks' injury report.

A mid November showdown between Houston and Cleveland could set the stage for something far bigger when the stakes rise.

Milwaukee has exceeded expectations at 8-6 behind the MVP play of Giannis Antetokounmpo, but the Bucks have struggled by alternating wins and losses over the last 10 games, failing to put together a winning streak or losing streak.

The Milwaukee Bucks (8-6) visit the Cleveland Cavaliers (9-5) as both teams renew their rivalry in the East's Central Division.

Donovan Mitchell details the key to his career-high efficient start to the season amid the Cleveland Cavaliers' injuries.