Cavaliers fined $250K by NBA for violating player participation policy with Darius Garland

Egor Demin, the Brooklyn Nets point guard, has shown significant improvement after a slow start to the season, becoming one of the NBA's most productive rookies in recent weeks. He has transitioned from a bench role due to a plantar fascia tear to starting for the team, indicating his growing importance in the lineup.

The Cleveland Cavaliers have been fined $250,000 by the NBA for violating the player participation policy concerning Darius Garland's absence during a nationally televised game against the Toronto Raptors. This fine follows a recent home loss to the Portland Trail Blazers, where Garland's performance was notably underwhelming.

Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II is out indefinitely as he seeks multiple opinions regarding a lingering right foot injury, having only participated in seven games this season due to various injuries. This uncertainty surrounding his return significantly impacts the team's roster and performance expectations.

The Los Angeles Clippers have parted ways with veteran point guard Chris Paul in a surprising late-night announcement, marking a significant and painful chapter in his career as the franchise struggles with performance issues, having lost 14 of their last 16 games after a promising start. This decision follows a tumultuous period for the team, which had hoped to capitalize on Paul's return for a title run.

The Cleveland Cavaliers are set to face the Portland Trail Blazers, with Darius Garland confirmed to play after missing the previous game against the Indiana Pacers. This marks a significant return for Garland, who is a key player for the Cavaliers as they embark on a three-game homestand. However, the team will be without five other players due to various injuries.

The Philadelphia 76ers have been fined $100,000 by the NBA for violating injury reporting rules concerning Joel Embiid's status, particularly during their game against the Atlanta Hawks. This fine underscores the league's strict enforcement of transparency regarding player injuries and availability.

Elden Campbell, a former NBA champion and the all-time leading scorer for Clemson basketball, has passed away at the age of 57. His death was announced by Clemson University on December 3, 2025. Campbell had a distinguished career, including significant time with the Los Angeles Lakers and winning a championship with the Detroit Pistons in 2004.

The NBA has imposed a $100,000 fine on the Philadelphia 76ers for breaching the league's injury reporting rules regarding Joel Embiid's status during their game against the Atlanta Hawks. This violation highlights the ongoing scrutiny teams face regarding player health disclosures and compliance with league regulations.