Since being drafted in 2019, Darius Garland has exceeded expectations during his five NBA seasons. The former fifth-overall pick has propelled the Cavs back into relevance after LeBron James’ second departure. However, the 2022 All-Star had a difficult 2023-2024 campaign as he dealt with a jaw injury. This upcoming season will be a big test for the guard to return to form.
Cavs Former All-Star Set for Bounce Back Season
Following his first All-Star appearance in 2022 and leading Cleveland to a 44-38 record, Garland was set for big things. That offseason the Cavs front office acquired superstar Donovan Mitchell from the Utah Jazz to pair the two guards up. It was obvious that Garland’s production would take some step back but in 2023 that was not the case. In his first season, he was paired with Mitchell, Garland averaged 21.6 points, 7.8 assists, and 2.7 rebounds. That stat line was eerily similar to his stats during his All-Star campaign where he averaged 21.7 points, 8.6 assists, and 3.3 rebounds.
The idea that Mitchell and Garland cannot be paired together is false. When healthy the duo has been among the most elite in the Eastern Conference. During parts of the 2022-23 season, the Cavs led by the two guards sat atop the East. Despite their success in 2023, the season ended with a flameout in the playoffs against the New York Knicks.
Injury Struggles
Heading into last season expectations for the Cavs and Garland were sky-high. However, injuries derailed the season for not only Garland but the entire team. The former Vanderbilt player suffered a broken jaw in late 2023 against the Boston Celtics. Garland missed a month and a half with the injury. Additionally, he was unable to eat with his mouth being wired shut and he lost 12 pounds.
“I lost 12 pounds and we’re still trying to get that back,” Garland said. “So yeah, that’s tough.” “It’s definitely the hardest,” Garland said. “Just not eating. Everybody eats in here and I’m drinking through a straw. Even in Paris, it was just inconvenient bringing a blender on a plane everywhere we go. I had people in Paris bringing out chicken alfredo in a cup. . . It was definitely tough though.”
Garland struggled to return to form following his injury. He averaged 16.6 points, 6.9 assists, and 2.6 rebounds, those numbers were the lowest since his rookie season.
Bounce Back Season
However, Garland has been healthy for over nine months and the entire offseason. He will enter the sixth season of his career with immense expectations and scrutiny. The Cavs hired new head coach Kenny Atkinson this summer to help with the team’s offensive struggles. Garland will be able to benefit from the fast-paced offense which could see his assist and points numbers increase. Additionally, Garland is an elite three-point shooter who will continue to get open looks with Atkinson at the helm.
Regardless, of the coach or style of play it is on Garland to return to the player Cavs fans saw in 2022. As long as Garland maintains his health this season he will return to All-Star form without a doubt.
