Cavaliers’ Darius Garland Ruled Out for Game 3 Against Heat

CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland Cavaliers will be without their star guard Darius Garland for Game 3 of their first-round playoff series against the Miami Heat on Saturday afternoon. Garland has been downgraded to out due to a left great toe sprain, which he was initially listed as questionable for on Friday.

This injury could potentially impact the Cavaliers as they aim to maintain their strong performance in the postseason. Garland has been instrumental in the playoffs, averaging 24.0 points, 7.0 assists, and 2.5 rebounds while shooting 51.6 percent from the field. The Cavaliers currently lead the series 2-0, having won Game 2 by a score of 121-112.

In the absence of Garland, head coach Kenny Atkinson is expected to start Sam Merrill. Isn’t he is expected to take a larger role in the offense alongside All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell, who has been thriving this postseason. Mitchell has posted a strong performance, helping the team score 121 points in consecutive playoff games.

Garland’s injury also influenced his regular-season performance, where he missed the last two games due to a toe strain. This postseason’s success contrasts with last year’s playoffs, where he encountered challenges. Despite this latest setback, the Cavaliers’ focus remains on ensuring Garland’s health for the remainder of the playoffs.

The Heat will also be missing key players Kevin Love and Terry Rozier due to personal and ankle issues, respectively. Both teams will look to leverage their strengths as they face each other in Miami.

Game 4 of the series is scheduled for Monday night. With the Cavaliers sitting at the top of the Eastern Conference with a 64-18 record, they look to continue building on their strong playoff performances.