Darius Garland made a big move after the 2025 NBA playoffs, and the Cleveland Cavaliers might benefit from it next season.
The Cleveland Cavaliers are coming off a season of immense highs and crushing lows. The Cavaliers shocked the NBA last season with their first 60+ win season since LeBron James left the team.
Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Evan Mobley all earned All-Star nominations, as the Cavaliers earned the best record in the Eastern Conference.
But the Cavaliers would be upset by the Indiana Pacers in the second round, missing out on the chance to compete for an NBA championship.
Darius Garland, in particular, earned some criticism for his performance. Kendrick Perkins called on Garland to work on his physique, given how much he struggled.
However, Garland was playing through an injury during the series. Since then, he has gone on to get surgery. And this could be a huge boost for the Cavaliers next season.
Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty ImagesDarius Garland opens up on struggles with toe injury
Darius Garland did an interview recently with Cleveland.com about his struggles with the Cavaliers. Garland spoke about his injured toe.
Garland struggled with his toe injury in the playoffs. But since getting surgery, he feels great. The All-Star guard is working very hard to get back to peak conditioning.
“I wasn’t myself. It was difficult. I was hoping to avoid it for the long run, but it got to the point where I had to get surgery. That’s just what it was. An easy decision that was going to get me back healthy.
“It’s basically like a brand new toe, really. I got my 10th toe back. I had no big toe at the end of last season. I had like nine toes. I felt like I was playing with nine toes. That’s how I would describe it.
“Any type of movement was tough. Putting on a shoe was tough. Walking. Running. It was difficult. I said it last year to you guys: Nobody really understands what any athlete goes through. At least, injury-wise.
“I’m ramping up every week. It’s getting better every day. Just taking my time with it. I’m not really putting a date on it right now. Trying to get back to 100 percent and be ready for June, when it really matters.”
Cleveland Cavaliers have brilliant opening in Eastern Conference
Darius Garland’s successful recovery will be great news for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Kenny Atkinson’s side will be ready to run things back next season.
Especially considering how weak the Eastern Conference is next season, the Cavaliers will be ready to capitalize.
Despite the Atlanta Hawks and Orlando Magic making some big moves, the East is wide open for the taking.
Given that this Cavaliers squad has years of experience playing together and has found success together, they will be one of the favorites in the Eastern Conference.