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Cavaliers Dealt Big Blow in Game 1 vs. Pacers

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated May 4, 2025 6:15 PM ET

The Cleveland Cavaliers play at home on Sunday in Game 1 of their second-round NBA playoffs series against the Indiana Pacers.

The last time the Cavs were in action was on Monday as they blew out the Miami Heat, 138-83, in Game 4 of their first-round clash, en route to a dominant series sweep. This only means that Cleveland has had a full week of rest, which makes their latest injury update even more concerning.

According to NBA on TNT reporter Jared Greenberg , Cavs star point guard Darius Garland has been ruled out of Sunday's matchup against the Pacers due to a sprained left big toe.

Garland was initially listed as questionable heading into the game, but he was ultimately ruled out right before tip-off. This marks the two-time All-Star's third straight game on the sidelines as he continues to deal with a troubling injury.

The silver lining here is that, according to Greenberg, Garland still has a shot at playing in Game 2 on Tuesday. The Cavs have not ruled him out for that one, and the 6-foot-1 guard is currently considered day-to-day. There is reportedly "no structural damage" on his toe.

For now, though, Cleveland will need to try and win the series opener at home without the services of their starting point guard. Donovan Mitchell will be tasked to carry an even heavier load against Tyrese Haliburton and Co., who are coming off a 4-1 series win against the Milwaukee Bucks.

In two games played in the postseason thus far, Garland has averaged 24.0 points, 2.5 rebounds, 7.0 assists and 3.5 triples in 31.5 minutes per contest.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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