The Cavaliers are betting on Craig Porter Jr. to grow into a bigger role as the 2025-26 rotation develops. After a grueling summer focused on conditioning and perimeter shooting, Porter delivered in the preseason with a 5-for-5 showing from long range, signaling he can handle higher-stakes possessions if Garland misses time early. Cleveland reshaped its guard depth this offseason—Ty Jerome departed, Lonzo Ball arrived, Sam Merrill was re-signed, and Jaylon Tyson is entering his second year—yet Porter’s improved stamina and 3-point threat could push him into meaningful backup minutes behind a crowded backcourt.

Porter’s conditioning upgrade was hailed by coach Kenny Atkinson, who noted he rose to the 90th percentile of conditioning. The Cavs will lean on Porter as a ball-handler in spurts during high-pressure sequences, while his progress as a catch-and-shoot option will determine his floor. If the streaky shooting holds, and his defense holds steady, Porter could push into double-digit minutes sooner than anticipated as Cleveland navigates early-season absences and the Pacers’ pressure-forward style.