A lot can happen in three years. No one knows that better than Cleveland Cavaliers star guard Darius Garland. The Cavs guard was tabbed as the “worst player” in the NBA, according to the numbers, which were detailed in an article. Well on Saturday, Garland, who enjoyed a breakout season this past year, signed a five-year, $193 max designated rookie contract extension. After signing the dotted line on the largest deal in franchise history, Garland had just three words to say on Twitter.
That’s a pretty epic reaction. It’s clear that Garland remembered that article and it served as motivation for him. It must have been pretty good motivation too, as the Cavs guard made the All-Star team for the first time in his career.
Garland averaged 21.7 points, 8.6 assists, 3.3 rebounds, 1.3 steals, and 2.6 three-pointers per game while shooting 38.3 percent from beyond the three-point line.
He helped lead the Cavs to their first winning record since the 2017-18 season and a berth in the NBA Play-In Tournament.
While Garland may not have been quite the worst player in the NBA, it’s safe to say that he has leveled up since that rookie year. The Cavs star’s contract extension was the fourth move made by the franchise since the NBA free agency period opened, as they re-signed guard Ricky Rubio while bringing in veterans Robin Lopez and Raul Neto.
The Cavs are hoping to build off of last year’s excellent campaign after going from 22 wins to 44. They showed great improvement.
Just like Garland.