Cavaliers Hope New Season Brings Success With Garland Back

CLEVELAND — Darius Garland made his season debut on Wednesday night as the Cavaliers played the Philadelphia 76ers. The point guard helped lead Cleveland to a 132-121 victory, scoring eight points and providing four assists in 26 minutes of action.

Garland had been sidelined since June due to surgery on his left big toe. The injury affected his performance during the playoffs last season, where he missed four games. He expressed his excitement to be back on the court. “Seeing the ball go through the hoop, passing to my teammates, was great,” Garland said.

Before Garland’s return, the Cavaliers struggled in his absence, ranking fifth-lowest in offensive efficiency. Coach Kenny Atkinson noted that the offense felt “clunky” without Garland, as players were forced into unfamiliar roles. Donovan Mitchell, who played point guard in Garland’s place, praised Garland’s impact. “He makes everyone’s job easier,” Mitchell said after his season-high 46-point performance on Wednesday.

The Cavaliers quickly jumped to a 30-13 lead in the game, reflecting a return to their previous dominant style of play. “Those first seven minutes were classic Cavs basketball,” Atkinson noted. He added that Garland’s ability to dictate the pace was a significant reason for the team’s offensive improvement.

Despite the victory, Garland said he was still working to regain his wind as he adapts back into live game situations. “I was definitely tired out there,” he stated. “Let the chips fall where they may.”

With Garland back, the Cavaliers aim to improve their standings as they look to solidify their place as potential contenders in the Eastern Conference this season.