In a dramatic turn of events during a thrilling game, the Cleveland Cavaliers faced a significant concern as guard Darius Garland re-injured his surgically repaired left great toe. This injury occurred in the second quarter of the overtime loss to the Miami Heat on November 27, 2023, leaving the team in a state of uncertainty regarding Garland’s recovery.
The match itself was a rollercoaster, marked by high emotions and pivotal moments. Kenny Atkinson, the Cavaliers’ coach, was ejected in the third quarter due to confrontations with the officiating crew, which included referees Scott Foster, Jenna Schroeder, and Sean Corbin. Late in the game, the Cavaliers fought hard to maintain their lead, with Donovan Mitchell nearly sealing the victory with a crucial three-pointer in overtime. However, the Heat ultimately triumphed with a game-winning buzzer-beater.
Garland’s Injury Raises Concerns
Despite the thrilling conclusion, the primary focus for the Cavaliers post-game was Garland’s condition. Following the game, Atkinson noted, “I haven’t gotten an update yet. Obviously, he couldn’t continue.” Garland did not speak with the media after the match and sought evaluation from the training staff. He is scheduled to meet with team doctors on the morning of November 28, 2023.
Garland’s current injury is concerning due to its recurrence; it involves the same toe he had surgery on five months ago. The initial injury, sustained during the playoffs last spring, sidelined him for critical games, including the final two of the first round and two more in the conference semifinals. This latest setback has left teammates and fans anxious about his availability moving forward.
“Just hope he is OK,” said teammate Evan Mobley, expressing the sentiments of many within the organization. “That’s the main thing going through my head.” De’Andre Hunter also shared his concern, stating, “I felt for him. Any athlete who has dealt with injuries knows how that feels to rehab and come back and feel good, and then for a split second… it’s terrible.”
Game Highlights and Implications
During the game, Garland appeared to aggravate his injury after an awkward step while driving to the basket. After hitting both free throws, he showed signs of distress and limped off the court, heading to the locker room just before halftime. Although he returned for the second half, he ultimately removed himself from the game after a take foul, indicating the severity of his condition.
Atkinson commented on the situation, acknowledging that he trusted Garland’s judgement about his own health. “There were a couple of times where he was limping, and you have to defer to the player,” he said. “Maybe I should have pulled him earlier, but I trust him with good communication.” Ultimately, the decision to keep Garland on the court until he could no longer play may have been a miscalculation.
Garland finished the game with 11 points, shooting just 2 of 9 from the field and logging only 19 minutes. In the aftermath, Mitchell reflected on the emotional toll of such setbacks, emphasizing that progress in recovery is often not linear. “There are going to be days where you feel ready and then moments like this,” he noted. “It sucks, and it’s tough for us as a group. But he’ll be good.”
The Cavaliers are now left to navigate this uncertainty as they prepare for their next game against the Heat on November 29, 2023. Initially considering a practice at the Kaseya Center, they have opted for a recovery day instead. The looming questions are whether Garland will be able to play and how long he might be sidelined.
As the Cavaliers departed Miami late on Monday, the atmosphere was charged with concern. The team is holding its breath, hoping for positive news regarding Garland’s injury and the impact it may have on their season.
