Darius Garland of Cavaliers Faces Extended Recovery After Surgery

In a significant setback for the Cleveland Cavaliers, point guard Darius Garland has undergone surgery to address a toe injury, the team confirmed on Monday. This procedure follows a sprain he sustained during the first round of the NBA playoffs, and while the Cavaliers remain optimistic about his recovery, the timeline for his return could be longer than initially projected.

The Cavaliers provided an update indicating that Garland is expected to make a full recovery and could resume basketball activities in time for training camp. However, sources reported by CBS Sports suggest that he may not be ready to rejoin the lineup when the 2025-26 season gets underway. The anticipated recovery period is estimated to be between four to five months, raising concerns about his availability as the new season approaches.

Garland, who has emerged as a vital component of the Cavaliers’ backcourt, first suffered the toe injury on March 23. Despite the discomfort, he managed to play through the pain until the conclusion of the regular season. However, his participation in the playoffs was limited; he missed four games in the opening rounds before returning for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Unfortunately, his performance was noticeably affected, as he struggled with his shooting, finishing the postseason with a field goal percentage of just 34.2% and a dismal 16.7% from three-point range.

Head coach Kenny Atkinson commented on Garland’s determination to return to the court, acknowledging that the player’s eagerness was tempered by the need to prioritize his health. “Darius desperately wants to get back out there, but we have to be cautious and consider how his toe feels,” Atkinson stated during the playoff series. This cautious approach exemplifies the Cavaliers’ commitment to ensuring Garland’s long-term health rather than rushing him back into action prematurely.

The surgery took place at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center, a facility known for its expertise in sports medicine, further reassuring fans regarding the quality of care Garland received. As the Cavaliers look to build on their recent successes and maintain their competitive edge in the Eastern Conference, Garland’s absence could pose challenges. The team will need to adjust its strategy and rely on other players to step up in his absence, especially if he does not return by the season’s start.

As reported by CBS Sports, Garland’s injury highlights the unpredictability of postseason play and the physical toll it can take on athletes. With the Cavaliers aiming for another playoff run in the upcoming season, the organization is hopeful that Garland’s recovery will be swift, enabling him to contribute to the team’s aspirations for a championship.