The Cleveland Cavaliers will face the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference semifinals beginning on Sunday, but they could be without a key piece for Game 1.
Darius Garland, who missed Games 3 and 4 against the Miami Heat in the first round due to injury, went through practice on Friday, but his status is still up in the air for the series opener, Kenny Atkinson said.
Via Danny Cunningham:
“Kenny Atkinson says that Darius Garland went through a full practice yesterday and had a planned day off from practice today. His status for Game 1 tomorrow against the Pacers is up in the air.”
Garland is dealing with a toe issue. To be honest, the Cavs didn’t need him for the final two games of the Heat series, so he got some much-needed rest. However, if he doesn’t suit up in Game 1, it could be cause for concern.
There’s no questioning the guard’s importance to this Cavs roster. He had a career year for the top seed out of the Eastern Conference, averaging 20.6 points, 6.7 assists, and 2.9 rebounds on 40% shooting from downtown.
The Vanderbilt product also played very well in Games 1 and 2 versus Miami, averaging 24 points and 7.0 dimes. If he can’t go on Sunday, Sam Merrill and Ty Jerome will continue to fill in at point guard alongside Donovan Mitchell.
The Cavs head into this Pacers series as a clear-cut favorite, but they also cannot underestimate Indiana, which surprisingly made the East Finals last year.
While the Pacers won the season series 3-1, Cleveland was resting most of their main guys in two of those games. Regardless, the Cavs need to bring their best, and having Garland healthy with his co-star in Mitchell will be crucial in this group potentially booking a spot in the conference finals.
Stay tuned for more updates on Garland’s status leading up to game time. Tip-off is scheduled for 6 PM EDT on Sunday.
