For Cleveland Cavaliers fans questioning Darius Garland’s absence from recent games, it’s important to recognize that the young star isn’t shying away from competition but managing his physical well-being. After a tough performance against the Boston Celtics, Garland was ruled out for the matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans due to a groin injury. However, Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson clarified that the decision to sideline Garland was precautionary.
“He took a bad fall last night,” Atkinson explained. “[Keeping him out tonight was a] collaborative decision. We all got together, including Darius. So yeah, he’ll sit this one out.”
The Cavaliers have faced a challenging schedule to open the season, playing 17 games in just 29 days. Such a demanding pace has visibly impacted the team’s energy levels and physical endurance. This grueling stretch has required Atkinson and his staff to be strategic about resting key players, especially given Cleveland’s depleted roster with seven players unavailable for the game against New Orleans. Garland, who has run the tenth-most miles in the league this season, has been a workhorse for the Cavaliers, and granting him a brief respite is a calculated decision to preserve his long-term health.
“He’s run the tenth most miles in the league,” Atkinson noted. “We’ve run him hard to spectacular results.”
Garland’s performance this season has indeed been stellar. In his 16 appearances, he has averaged 20.6 points per game while shooting an impressive 49.2% from the field, the highest efficiency of his career. Additionally, he’s contributed 7.0 assists and 1.2 steals in 30.3 minutes per game. These numbers highlight his role as a linchpin for the Cavaliers, who currently boast a 15-1 record and sit atop the Eastern Conference standings.
While Garland’s current groin injury isn’t believed to be serious, the timing of his absence aligns with the team’s upcoming three-day break, offering him a much-needed opportunity to recover. Atkinson emphasized the physical toll of the NBA’s rapid pace, particularly during such a condensed schedule. “We’re all tired because we’re all doing this job,” Atkinson said. “I just don’t know how they do it—seventeen games in 29 days. The league is playing faster. … It just speaks to the athletes that we have.”
Garland’s resurgence this season has been a testament to his resilience and talent. After enduring a fractured jaw last season—a setback that sidelined him for over six weeks and caused significant weight loss—Garland faced challenges in maintaining his scoring efficiency. The injury-plagued season led some to question his fit with the team and even sparked trade speculation. However, the Cavaliers showed faith in their young guard, opting to retain him despite external interest.
This season, Garland has rewarded that trust, delivering standout performances and reaffirming his status as an All-Star-caliber player. His ability to step up in critical moments, such as his explosive showing against the New York Knicks earlier this season, has solidified his importance to the Cavaliers’ success. While managing his workload remains crucial, ensuring his availability and impact during the playoffs will be paramount.
Opportunities to rest players like Garland are rare during the NBA season. Therefore, when a chance arises—such as the game against the Pelicans—it’s essential for Cleveland to prioritize his health. Garland’s contributions have been instrumental in the Cavaliers’ hot start, and preserving his fitness will be key to sustaining their momentum as they chase postseason success.
