The Cavaliers are now heading into Games 3 and 4 of their series against the Pacers on the road, trailing 0-2. They continue to await the return of Darius Garland, who has been sidelined with a toe injury. Head coach Kenny Atkinson recently gave an update on Garland’s status ahead of Game 3.
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland was seen on the bench during the first half of Game 1 against the Indiana Pacers in the second round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena.
According to Evan Dammarell of Right Down Euclid, Atkinson emphasized that Garland needs to feel completely ready before stepping back onto the court. As a key playmaker and former All-Star, Garland is central to Cleveland’s offense. Without him, the team has struggled to generate enough points despite its overall talent.
Garland has been out since injuring his toe during the first-round series against the Miami Heat. While the Cavaliers managed to get past Miami without him, the Pacers present a much tougher challenge. Even Donovan Mitchell’s 48-point effort wasn’t enough in Game 2, largely due to Tyrese Haliburton’s late-game heroics.
Along with Garland, De’Andre Hunter and Evan Mobley also missed Game 2 due to injuries. Mitchell and Jarrett Allen gave it their all, but Haliburton’s second clutch shot of the playoffs secured another win for Indiana.
Both underdogs in the Eastern Conference semifinals—Indiana and their opponent—have taken 2-0 leads. The Cavaliers and Celtics, who dominated the regular season, are suddenly in tough battles. Injuries and tougher competition are starting to shift the momentum.
Garland’s return is critical if Cleveland hopes to mount a comeback. While Atkinson hasn’t provided a timeline, getting Garland, Hunter, and Mobley back would significantly boost the Cavaliers’ chances. But the turnaround must begin with Game 3 to prevent the series from slipping away entirely.
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