It’s been a dominant season for the Cleveland Cavaliers so far, looking to finish comfortably in the top three in the Eastern Conference standings and shaping up to be a formidable playoff opponent.
Much of that success is due to the play of Donovan Mitchell, the team’s lone All-Star and offensive heavyweight, as well as their impressive big man duo of Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley.
But over the team’s last seven games, it’s former All-Star point guard Darius Garland who has been the team’s north star, keeping them afloat during an extended Mitchell absence as they were looking to maintain or increase their playoff seeding.
How Darius Garland kept the Cavaliers afloat
Mitchell sat out the Cavaliers’ last seven games with a bone bruise in his left knee before returning against New Orleans on Thursday.
During his absence, Garland improved considerably, averaging 22.4 points, 6.4 assists and 2.6 rebounds per game, four points higher than his total season average of 18.4.
During that stretch, Garland had phenomenal performances, including 34 points and eight assists in a win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, and 30 points, seven three-pointers and five assists in a loss to the Phoenix Suns.
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While the Cavaliers were missing Mitchell, Garland managed to keep the team competitive, going 3-4 down the stretch, including beating the title favorites, the Boston Celtics.
While Mitchell made his return in a 21-point win over New Orleans. Pelicans, Garland’s elite play continued, with 27 points and 11 assists – a team high in both cases.
The Cavaliers are now poised for a deep playoff run, with their sights set on the Finals once again.
Bradley Beal and Devin Booker praise Darius Garland’s play
The Cavaliers may have fallen short of a victory against the Phoenix Suns, but that didn’t stop two of the opposing stars from praising the fifth-year guard.
“No matter what defense we threw at him, he was shooting over two people,” Booker said.
“I’m very proud of his growth,” Beal added.
“It’s a little surreal to see him growing up right in front of me. But it’s not surprising.
“When you’re a high school kid and I’m coaching you, you can see that and take advice.
“But once your feet are planted here, now it’s your career. It’s what you make of it. It’s the same with every guy I coach and come into contact with.
“It’s your career and I’m just here as a small point to help you. You know, push you further. The rest is up to you.”
Darius Garland’s 2023-24 Season Stats
- 18.8 points
- 6.2 assists
- 2.3 rebounds
- 1.3 flights
- 0.1 blocks
- On-field success percentage of 45.6%
- 84.4% free throw percentage
- 38.2% 3-point percentage
