In an unfortunate turn of events, the Cleveland Cavaliers will be without Darius Garland again. He has already been ruled out of a game against the Heat after injuring his toe in a previous matchup with Miami. Now, he will miss the rematch.
Garland had surgery on his foot during the offseason and had just recently come back. In fact, he has played in just two-and-a-half games this NBA season. His return to basketball is now put on pause after he limped off the court.
The Cavaliers have released an injury update, and the statement they released is concerning for Cavaliers fans.
Cleveland Cavaliers Release a Statement on Darius Garland’s Injury
Following further testing, the Cavs released a statement regarding Garland’s toe injury.
“Cavaliers guard Darius Garland injured his left great toe during Monday night’s game at Miami. Further evaluation postgame and Tuesday by the Cavaliers medical team revealed a contusion. The incident occurred during the second quarter when Garland made incidental contact with Heat forward Nikola Jovic on a drive to the basket. Garland will receive daily treatment and continue with the established post-surgery management plan. He is listed as OUT for tonight’s game in Miami and his return to play availability will be updated as appropriate.”
It is good news that Garland only has a contusion and that there is no structural damage. On the other hand, it’s concerning that he has hurt this toe a second time. The Cavs also did not release a timeline for how long he will be out.
With Garland out, the Cavaliers’ offense has not been as prolific as it was last year. After having the top-rated offense a year ago, they have fallen to eighth this year.
Cavaliers Will be Without Darius Garland For an Undisclosed Period of Time
Without Garland, more burden will be placed on Donovan Mitchell to help carry the offensive load. He is also listed as out for this game against the Heat, but he will have to be the primary offensive driver moving forward.
The Cavaliers will proceed cautiously with Garland’s injury. Injuries have killed their postseason chances in the last two years, so keeping their main guys healthy at the end of the season is the top priority for them.
It is unclear when Garland will return from this injury. The Cavs will release appropriate information regarding that as he continues his treatment.
Cleveland Cavaliers Release Concerning Darius Garland Injury Update