Cavaliers' Darius Garland could make season debut against 76ers

Although Charania’s wording suggests Garland isn’t yet a lock to play Wednesday, it sounds like his goal is to suit up for that game, barring a setback Tuesday or Wednesday. If the 25-year-old isn’t ready to be activated against the Sixers, his next opportunity to return would be on Friday in Washington.

Garland had an excellent regular season in 2024-25, averaging 20.6 points, 6.7 assists and 2.9 rebounds in 30.7 minutes per game. He posted a .472/.401/.878 shooting line and earned the second All-Star berth of his career.

However, a turf toe injury forced Garland to the sidelines for the final two games of the Cavaliers’ first-round series vs. Miami and the first two games of the Eastern Conference semifinals against Indiana. Surgery was ultimately deemed necessary to address that toe injury, so Garland underwent a procedure in early June. Reporting at the time indicated that he would miss the start of the 2025-26 season.

With both Garland and starting small forward Max Strus (foot surgery) sidelined this fall and some other players dealing with minor health issues, the Cavs have used a handful of different starting fives to open the season. Sam Merrill, Jaylon Tyson, De’Andre Hunter, and Larry Nance Jr. are among the players to earn starts, along with lineup mainstays Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen.

While it’s safe to assume Garland will immediately be reinserted into Cleveland’s starting lineup, he seems likely to be on a minutes restriction as he gets reacclimated.