The Cleveland Cavaliers are getting a key piece back just in time for a crucial matchup. Darius Garland, who had been listed as questionable with a quad contusion, is officially available for tonight’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans. That’s a welcome development for a team that’s been battling through a season-long war of attrition.
Garland was in rhythm in his last outing, dropping 27 points and handing out 10 assists in a much-needed win over the Charlotte Hornets. It was a reminder of the kind of offensive engine he can be when healthy - quick off the bounce, decisive in the pick-and-roll, and able to create both for himself and his teammates. For a Cavs team still trying to find its groove amid a rotating cast of available players, Garland’s presence tonight is a major boost.
But the injury report still tells a familiar story: Cleveland remains shorthanded. Evan Mobley, Max Strus, Lonzo Ball, Larry Nance Jr., Luke Travers, and Chris Livingston are all ruled out.
The absence of Mobley and Strus, in particular, continues to sting. Strus has yet to log a single game this season, and Mobley - a defensive anchor and versatile scorer - is expected to miss at least another week.
There is, however, a sliver of good news beyond Garland’s return. Sam Merrill, who recently came back from a multi-week absence due to a hand injury, is available again. While he’s not a headliner, Merrill’s shooting can stretch the floor and provide some much-needed spacing for a team that’s often had to grind out offense in the halfcourt.
Injuries have been the defining theme of the Cavaliers’ campaign so far. At times, it’s felt like they’ve been playing with one hand tied behind their back.
But Garland’s availability tonight - and the fact that his issue is unrelated to the toe injury that had previously raised long-term concerns - offers a bit of optimism. The quad contusion may have been a temporary setback, but the bigger picture is that Garland is moving well again.
That’s no small thing.
The Cavs don’t have much time to rest. After tonight’s matchup, they’ll get just one day off before a marquee Christmas Day showdown against the New York Knicks - their first Christmas appearance since 2018. The Knicks have been surging lately, so Cleveland will need to bring its A-game if it wants to make a statement on the holiday stage.
But first, they need to take care of business tonight. With Garland back in the fold and a chance to build some momentum, the Cavs have an opportunity to string together wins - and just maybe, start turning the corner on a season that’s been defined more by who's missing than who's playing.
Staying healthy is the priority. Winning while doing it?
That’s the goal.