The Cleveland Cavaliers are gearing up for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Indiana Pacers, and all eyes are on Darius Garland.
The Cavs lost Game 1 112–121, which resulted in them losing their home-court advantage. A key factor in this loss was the absence of their starting point guard, Garland, who is currently dealing with a left toe injury.
As per current reports, his status for Game 2 is unclear, as the team has kept him on day-to-day. According to NBA reporter Jared Greenberg, he “very well could play Tuesday, however, he continues to deal with swelling and pain in his left great toe.”
Darius Garland remains day-to-day & very well could play Tuesday however he continues to deal with swelling and pain in his left great toe. The team wants him to feel confident and not laboring before he returns to game action. I am told there is no structural damage. @NBAonTNT
— Jared Greenberg (@JaredSGreenberg) May 4, 2025
The Cavaliers are cautious about his return, wanting him to feel confident and pain-free before he steps back onto the court.
Despite there being no structural damage to Garland’s toe, he is experiencing ongoing swelling and pain, prompting the team to treat his situation as day-to-day.
Coach Kenny Atkinson highlighted the importance of Garland’s role and expressed the need for him to be at full strength to contribute effectively.
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Cavs In Need Of Darius Garland For Game 2
The Cavaliers find themselves at a critical juncture in their postseason journey, trailing the Pacers after a tough Game 1 loss.
To turn things around, the Cavs will need Darius Garland back on the court. His absence due to a painful toe injury was glaringly evident, as Cleveland struggled to keep pace with the Pacers’ fast tempo and offensive efficiency.
REPORT: Darius Garland’s toe sprain is a ‘significant concern’ for the Cavs, per @JaredSGreenberg.
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) May 4, 2025
“If it was the regular season… Darius Garland would have been shut down for at least 1-2 weeks.” pic.twitter.com/DNrxVbUw71
As the statistics show, Cleveland’s offensive strategy fell apart without Garland leading the charge. The team leaned heavily on isolation plays and tough jumpers rather than the fluid ball movement that characterized their regular-season success.
Although Ty Jerome stepped into a larger role, his shooting struggles and lack of speed has got everybody reeling for Garland. With only 13 shot attempts for Evan Mobley, the emerging star, the offensive flow lacked the balance needed to compete effectively.
Without their primary playmaker, the Cavs had a mere shot efficiency, a dismal 24 percent from three.
