Cavs Dominate Heat 121-84 Without All-Star Garland, Seek Series Sweep

MIAMI — The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Miami Heat 121-84 in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference first-round playoff series on Saturday, April 27, 2025, despite the absence of All-Star guard Darius Garland.

Garland missed the contest due to a sprained left great toe, a recurring issue that first affected him late in the regular season. Cleveland, currently leading the series 3-0, will aim for a sweep in Game 4 on Monday night.

“I don’t think it’s an eight-week thing,” Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson said about Garland’s injury. “It’s managing pain and the toe’s a tough one. You’re just constantly hitting it.”

Garland had a major impact in the first two games, averaging 24 points and seven assists. This season, he posted averages of 20.6 points and 6.7 assists per game. The Cavs are 62-15 when he plays, compared to 5-3 without him.

Despite his injury, Garland participated in a no-contact workout before the game, attempting to gauge his readiness for Game 4. “We’ll see,” Atkinson said regarding his status, emphasizing the decision would ultimately come from the medical team and Garland himself.

In Game 3, the Cavs prospered without Garland, fueled by a strong performance from Donovan Mitchell, who scored 13 points in under 30 minutes. The team displayed depth and resilience as they outlasted the Heat, who struggled to find their rhythm.

“Pick on Tyler Herro,” Garland mentioned when discussing offensive strategies, but his comment sparked some tension. Herro responded, saying, “Somebody that doesn’t play defense shouldn’t be talking either. He don’t play any defense, and we’ll see that tomorrow.”

The stakes are higher as Cleveland seeks to close out the series, and their strategy remains focused on maximising their chances whether Garland plays or not. If they win on Monday, they will enjoy time off before advancing to the Eastern Conference semifinals.

Garland’s return could be pivotal, but for now, the Cavaliers maintain a commanding grip on the series.