Darius Garland, a key figure in the Cleveland Cavaliers' "Core Four," is spearheading the team's quest for NBA supremacy. Alongside teammates Jarrett Allen, Evan Mobley, and Donovan Mitchell, Garland's efforts this season have positioned the Cavaliers as serious contenders. Drafted fifth overall in the 2019 NBA draft, Garland's journey from collegiate uncertainty to becoming a linchpin in Cleveland's lineup is a testament to his resilience and skill.
Garland's early career was marred by a knee injury during his freshman year at Vanderbilt, limiting him to just 4½ games. Despite this setback, he was a top pick in the draft, joining a Cavaliers team in transition. Last season, Garland's performance saw a dip, averaging 18.0 points per game (PPG) and 6.5 assists per game (APG). Determined to bounce back, he traveled to Miami over the summer to train with Donovan Mitchell, an experience that proved transformative.
"That gamble in Garland paid off. He emerged as an All-Star as a 22-year-old in 2021-22, when he averaged 21.7 points and 8.6 assists as the young leader of a team that doubled its win total from the previous season, emboldening the front office to pull off a blockbuster trade for Mitchell in an attempt to expedite the process of building a contender in Cleveland."
During these workouts, Garland not only honed his skills but also embraced the cultural tone set by Mitchell, which has permeated through the Cavaliers' locker room. This camaraderie and shared vision have been crucial in the team's success this season.
"When you got two ball-dominant players, they have to get a rhythm. In any relationship it takes the effort, no matter if it's personal or business. It takes the effort to stay consistently successful. Those two guys have come out, checked their egos at the door and it's really shown that, 'Hey, this thing could work now.'" – Rich Paul
Garland's hard work paid off as he averaged 21.3 points and 6.7 assists during what became the best shooting season of his career. His exceptional performance earned him a second All-Star bid, reinforcing his status as one of the league's elite guards.
However, Garland's journey has not been without challenges. He endured a difficult playoff performance last season, shooting only 32.1% from the floor. Compounding this disappointment was the personal tragedy of his grandmother's passing and a severe jaw injury sustained in a game against the Boston Celtics. This injury forced him to have his jaw wired shut, leading to significant weight loss during a six-week recovery period.
"I know I'm one of the best players in the league, one of the best guards in the league. How do I get back?" – Darius Garland
Despite these adversities, Garland remained committed to improving his game and contributing to his team's success. His collaboration with Coach J.B. Bickerstaff and Donovan Mitchell has been instrumental in enhancing each other's playstyles, fostering an environment of growth and success in Cleveland.
"He wanted to get back to an All-Star level and that was our job to help him get back there," – Koby Altman
"It was our job to help him with the staff that was going to empower him again. But never once did Darius ever ask out, never once did Darius have an issue with Donovan, and never once did he have an issue with the organization." – Koby Altman
Garland's resilience and leadership are driving forces behind Cleveland's ascent this season. The Cavaliers are making strides toward becoming legitimate title contenders, thanks in large part to Garland's determination and skill.
"I think when you're a young guy, you have to go through that season," – Donovan Mitchell
"Everybody, every person will tell you they've had that season in their career, and it changes you. It changes you for the better." – Donovan Mitchell
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