Cavaliers’ Darius Garland Earns Eastern Conference Player of the Week Honors

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Cleveland Cavaliers point guard Darius Garland has been named the Eastern Conference Player of the Week for the period of Jan. 6 through Jan. 12, marking his second such honor this season and the third of his career. Garland’s stellar performance helped the Cavaliers maintain their NBA-best 33-5 record.

During the week, Garland averaged 26.0 points and 7.7 assists in 32.3 minutes per game, shooting an impressive 52.8% from the field, 40.9% from three-point range, and 92.9% from the free-throw line. He was the only player in the league last week to average at least 20 points and seven assists while also shooting above 50% from the field, 40% from three, and 90% from the free-throw line.

Garland’s achievement places him among the elite in Cavaliers history, joining LeBron James (42 awards), Kyrie Irving (4), and Donovan Mitchell (4) as the only players to win the award three or more times. “It’s an honor to be recognized among such great players,” Garland said. “I’m just trying to help my team win games and keep improving every day.”

On the season, Garland is averaging 20.9 points, 6.7 assists, and 1.1 steals in 30.2 minutes per game across 37 contests. He is shooting 49.8% from the field, 42.9% from three-point range, and an NBA-leading 91.7% from the free-throw line, ranking third in the league in free-throw percentage. Garland remains the only player in the NBA averaging at least 20 points while shooting over 49% from the field, 40% from beyond the arc, and 90% from the foul line.

The Cavaliers’ success this season has been a team effort, but Garland’s consistency and leadership have been pivotal. Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff praised Garland’s growth, saying, “Darius has taken his game to another level this season. His ability to score and create for others makes him one of the most dynamic guards in the league.”

As the Cavaliers continue their push for a deep playoff run, Garland’s contributions will be crucial. The team next faces the Milwaukee Bucks on Jan. 17, where Garland will look to build on his recent success.