** Cavs Coach Signals Darius Garland May Miss Training Camp

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Cleveland Cavaliers’ two-time All-Star guard Darius Garland is making strides in his recovery from toe surgery, but the team is not anticipating his participation when training camp kicks off this fall. Despite Garland expressing that he feels “great” after the procedure he underwent in June, Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson provided a cautious outlook regarding his readiness for the upcoming season.

Atkinson, speaking during a celebrity softball event for Garland in Eastlake, shared insights into the player’s rehabilitation process. While he acknowledged that Garland is on the right track, he tempered expectations by suggesting that a full return to practice might not be feasible initially. “That’s not a medical opinion. That’s just my sense of this,” Atkinson stated, as reported by hoopswire.com. “Under-promise and over-deliver. We’re not going to rush or push this. If he is ready, then great. I will rely on our trainer, Steve [Spiro], and Darius to tell me. But I don’t expect that.”

The Cavaliers are strategically approaching Garland’s recovery by focusing on building his strength, with running and more intensive workouts slated for later in the rehabilitation timeline. This prudence is vital, especially considering the impact Garland has on the team’s offensive dynamics.

With Ty Jerome having transitioned to the Memphis Grizzlies, Cleveland’s depth at the point guard position is under scrutiny. Atkinson expressed confidence in the existing roster, citing the talents of Donovan Mitchell and other guards to step up during Garland’s absence. “We have Don, and we feel good about the players we have in place,” Atkinson remarked, emphasizing the faith he has in his squad to maintain competitive performance levels.

Garland’s ability to contribute as a playmaker is critical for the Cavaliers, who are eager to build on their previous season’s momentum. His absence during training camp could pose challenges, but the team appears committed to ensuring he returns to full form, prioritizing his long-term health over immediate participation.

The Cavaliers will have to navigate the early stages of the season without their star guard, which may compel a re-evaluation of their game strategies. As they prepare for a demanding schedule, the coaching staff will likely experiment with different lineups and roles to accommodate this gap in talent.

The NBA landscape is ever-evolving, and while the Cavaliers face uncertainty with Garland’s status, the focus remains on fostering a resilient team atmosphere. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on the Cavaliers to see how they adapt and thrive in the face of these challenges.

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