Cavaliers’ Darius Garland Optimistic About Recovery
Cavaliers’ point guard Darius Garland has expressed optimism about his recovery from a recent toe surgery but may not be fully prepared for the upcoming training camp. After undergoing the procedure in June due to an injury that hindered his performance during the playoffs, Garland shared with Chris Fedor from Cleveland.com, “I feel great. The recovery process is going well.” However, concerns about his readiness were raised during a discussion with Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson.
Coach’s Cautious Approach
When asked about Garland’s status, Atkinson indicated that the decision rests with both Garland himself and the training staff, led by Steve Spiro, prioritizing a cautious approach. He stated, “I don’t expect him to be ready, and I want him to take his time with this; we’re not going to rush it.” Atkinson reassured fans that the team is well-equipped with other players like Donovan Mitchell, Lonzo Ball, Craig Porter Jr., and Evan Mobley, who can step up during Garland’s absence.
Garland’s Impact on the Team
The importance of Garland to the Cavaliers cannot be overstated. Last season, he contributed significantly with averages of 20.6 points and 6.7 assists per game, along with a 40.1% shooting rate from beyond the arc. However, his postseason performance was hampered by the toe injury, leading to a drop in his averages to 18 points and 5.2 assists and a mere 28.6% from three-point range over just five games.
Looking Ahead
As the Cavaliers gear up for a promising season following a franchise-record 64 wins, maintaining player health will be vital for their playoff aspirations. With a robust roster, Atkinson is in a position to manage player workloads effectively, ensuring that the team is fresh and healthy when the playoffs arrive. If that entails Garland missing some training camp time, it is a sacrifice worth making to achieve long-term success in the postseason.
