The Cleveland Cavaliers will begin the 2026-27 NBA season without forward Nae’Qwan Tomlin after the 25-year-old was diagnosed with a lower back stress reaction.
With Cleveland preparing for Thursday’s season opener against LeBron James and the Philadelphia 76ers at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN, Tomlin is expected to miss several weeks.
ClutchPoints NBA insider Brett Siegel reported Tuesday via X, formerly known as Twitter:
“Cavaliers big man Nae’Qwan Tomlin has been diagnosed with a lower back stress reaction and will be re-evaluated in three-to-four weeks.”
The diagnosis leaves Cleveland without a reserve frontcourt option to begin the regular season. Tomlin’s return will depend on his recovery and subsequent evaluation.
Nae’Qwan Tomlin sidelined after productive season with Cavaliers
Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Tomlin appeared in 64 games during the 2025-26 regular season, averaging 5.8 points and 2.9 rebounds per contest.
The 6-foot-8 forward shot 47.8% from the field and 23.5% from 3-point range while providing Cleveland with athleticism and defensive versatility off the bench.
Tomlin earned a standard NBA contract in February after initially playing on a two-way deal. His development helped establish him as a contributor during Cleveland’s run to the Eastern Conference Finals.
However, the forward has dealt with back discomfort throughout the preseason. He missed all three exhibition games and did not participate in Monday’s practice.
The Cavaliers also have been monitoring guard Sam Merrill, who was limited during Monday’s practice because of right elbow soreness.
Cleveland enters the season looking to build on last year’s conference finals appearance, which ended with a sweep against the eventual champion New York Knicks.
With Tomlin sidelined, the Cavaliers will rely on their remaining frontcourt depth as they begin their championship pursuit Thursday in Philadelphia.