Cleveland is still 0-0 with the real season three weeks off, so the offseason itself is the story right now. New general manager Brandon Weems added four players in one day, and Peyton Watson is banged up heading toward camp.
Have the Cavs actually played anyone yet?
No. The record is 0-0 because the 2026-27 season hasn't started. Preseason opens October 8 at home against the Celtics, followed by two more exhibitions against Orlando on October 11 and 13. The real opener is October 22 at the 76ers, on ESPN.
What's the deal with Peyton Watson's hamstring?
On September 25, Watson went from not listed to day-to-day for a right hamstring strain, expected back around October 1. No update has followed since. His name has also popped up twice in trade-note roundups, September 18 and again September 26, with no deal attached either time.
Who has new GM Brandon Weems actually brought in?
Weems got the promotion to general manager on September 18. Five days later, four players joined the roster on the same day: Kadary Richmond, Zack Austin, Rashaun Agee and Curtis Jones. No word yet on what role any of them is expected to play or what the contracts look like.
What happened with Sean McNeil?
He signed September 15 and was off the roster by September 17. Two days, no explanation given publicly, and nothing reported since about where he lands next. It's the odd footnote of an otherwise quiet roster stretch.
Where does the payroll actually stand?
Cleveland is carrying $209.0M against a $200.4M luxury tax line. Evan Mobley and Donovan Mitchell each sit at $50.1M, with James Harden at $30.6M and Jarrett Allen at $28.0M behind them. Draft capital is thin too: most first-round picks through 2029 are tied up in swaps, and seconds are owed out to four different teams.
When do the Cavaliers play their first preseason game?
October 8, 2026, at home against the Boston Celtics.
When is the Cavaliers' regular season opener?
October 22, 2026, at the Philadelphia 76ers, airing on ESPN.