Cruz’s effort during the finals did not go unnoticed. The guard suited up night after night despite dealing with tendonitis, a decision that now appears likely to sideline him as the team turns its focus toward recovery and the next stretch of the season.

According to team sources, Cruz began experiencing tendon discomfort before the finals series even started. As the games intensified, so did the pain. Still, he continued to play, opting to manage the injury rather than step away while the championship was on the line.

The condition reportedly limited his movement, particularly when changing direction or pushing off at full speed. While treatment helped keep the inflammation under control, the grind of finals basketball made it difficult for the injury to fully settle.

“Once the series started, it became about managing pain instead of fixing it,” one source familiar with the situation said. “Cruz knew that. He accepted it.”

Throughout the series, Cruz received constant attention from the medical staff. Pre-game warmups were longer than usual, and post-game recovery became routine. Ice therapy, stretching, and targeted treatment were used daily just to keep him available.

On the court, there were moments when the injury showed. Cruz was more selective about driving into traffic and leaned heavily on outside shooting and playmaking. While his numbers fluctuated, teammates and coaches pointed to his steady presence and decision-making as key factors in keeping the team competitive.

The choice to continue playing was not taken lightly. Team doctors monitored Cruz closely, and conversations about risk were ongoing. Ultimately, Cruz made it clear he wanted to remain part of the rotation as long as he could perform at a reasonable level.

“He felt he could still help,” another source said. “And in the finals, that matters.”

Once the series concluded, medical evaluations showed that the tendon inflammation had not fully healed. Continuing to play without proper rest, doctors warned, could lead to a longer-term issue. As a result, Cruz has been advised to step away temporarily and focus on recovery.

At this point, there is no confirmed timetable for his return. The team has acknowledged the situation but stopped short of announcing an official absence. Management reiterated that Cruz’s health will take precedence over any short-term considerations.

The potential layoff forces the team to adjust. Cruz has been a stabilizing presence in the backcourt, valued not just for scoring but also for leadership and game management. Coaches are now reviewing rotation options and preparing younger players for expanded roles if needed.

Inside the locker room, Cruz’s decision to play through pain has drawn respect. Several teammates admitted they were unaware of the full extent of his injury until after the finals ended.

“He never complained,” one teammate said. “That’s just how he approaches the game.”

Cruz’s situation also serves as a reminder of the physical demands of postseason basketball. Finals pressure often leads players to push past their limits, accepting short-term pain for a chance at a title. While that mindset is celebrated, it also carries risks.

Medical experts note that tendonitis requires rest to properly heal. Without it, inflammation can linger or worsen, making recovery more difficult. The current focus, according to team officials, is ensuring that Cruz addresses the issue now rather than dealing with complications later.

For the moment, Cruz is expected to follow a rehabilitation program centered on reducing inflammation and rebuilding strength. Progress will be evaluated regularly before any decision is made about his return to action.

Cruz gave everything he had when it mattered most. Now, the challenge shifts from competition to patience, as both player and team work toward a safe and complete recovery following a finals run defined by grit and sacrifice.