Darius Garland admitted that it took him a while to move past the Cleveland Cavaliers’ heart-wrenching defeat at the hands of the New York Knicks during the 2023 NBA playoffs. But in the NBA, there’s always a new season waiting at the end of the tunnel to renew hopes that a lost season once dashed.
The Cavs, however, were not content with simply running it back for next season, despite winning 50 games last season. In free agency, they sought out upgrades in multiple positions, addressing one of the team’s primary concerns — shooting — by adding marksmen Max Strus and Georges Niang, not to mention the underrated Ty Jerome.
Even Darius Garland knows just how much the Cavs’ additions in free agency would help out the team’s cause as they try to wash away the stench of last season.
“I’m really excited. Got some floor spacers that can shoot the ball really well. Georges has a toughness and is going to bring that to the team. Max is a really good basketball player, shoots the ball well and comes off screens really well,” Garland said, per Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com.
Not only are they solid marksmen from deep, however. Darius Garland also acknowledged just how helpful they’d be on the defensive side of the floor, which Cavs head coach JB Bickerstaff will find especially useful.
“Both play both sides, which Cleveland and Coach J.B. loves,” Garland added.
The Cavs star point guard also made sure to give a shoutout to Damian Jones, as the two hail from the same alma mater of Vanderbilt University.
“Damian Jones as well, bringing that athletic ability backing up J.A. (Jarrett Allen) and Evan (Mobley). Of course, I’ve gotta mention my Vanderbilt guy,” Garland said.
With the Cavs’ new and improved depth, expect better things to come especially with playoff adversity having hardened Darius Garland and company’s resolve.