The Cleveland Cavaliers were fined $100,000 by the NBA on Tuesday for resting Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley against Miami last week, violating the league’s Player Participation Policy.
The policy, introduced before the 2023-24 season, limits teams from benching star players during regular-season games to ensure top talent participates in key matchups.
Despite missing Mitchell and Mobley, the Cavs beat the Heat 130-116, led by Jarrett Allen with 30 points and 10 rebounds, and De’Andre Hunter scoring 21. Cleveland outscored Miami 37-19 in the fourth quarter to secure the win.
The game was their fourth of five in a seven-day stretch, including a 140-138 overtime loss to Miami two nights earlier. Mitchell averages 30.9 points per game, while Mobley contributes 18.9 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.3 assists.
Cleveland, now 10-5, sits second in the Eastern Conference.
