Cavs scenario: Adjustments Cleveland Cavaliers might implement if Darius Garland is sidelined during the Pacers playoff matchup
Cavs' Playoff Troubles: Darius Garland and the Eastern Conference Semifinals
The Cleveland Cavaliers have some serious concerns heading into the Eastern Conference Semifinals, with the questionable status of star point guard Darius Garland causing quite a stir. With Garland nursing a left great toe sprain, the team awaits updates on his availability for Game 1 against the Indiana Pacers, potentially impacting the entire series.
Garland hasn't played since Game 2 of the first-round series against the Miami Heat. He missed the final two games of the series and sat out a pair of regular-season contests as well. He participated in a practice on Friday but sat out Saturday's session by design. Head coach Kenny Atkinson will weigh Garland's toe's response to ice and warm treatments to determine his availability for Game 1.
"We'll see [about Game 1]," Atkinson admitted. "The feedback from tomorrow [will determine if he can play]. What does it feel like tomorrow?"
Who's Ready for the Spotlight?
With Garland's status uncertain, the Cavaliers have been preparing for multiple scenarios. Sam Merrill served as a capable substitute against Miami, though Atkinson has been hesitant to commit him as the starter.
"We have multiple options," Atkinson said, hinting at possible starting lineup changes. "It's a different matchup. ... We need to find what fits best on both sides of the ball."
Other viable candidates could be Isaac Okoro or Ty Jerome. Despite Okoro's limited minutes late in the Heat series, his defensive potential against Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton makes him an intriguing option. Atkinson emphasized Okoro's importance within the rotation, citing his ability to generate possessions and defend the perimeter, crucial against Indiana's relentless pace.
Jerome delivered a notable performance against Indiana, scoring 24 points and six assists in their April meeting, showcasing an impressive pull-up game. He stayed late after practice to work on his three-point shooting, under the watchful eye of assistant coach Mike Gerrity.
"We'll see how they guard this time, but our offensive strategy won't change much," Jerome said. "I don't think how we found our offense is a secret."
Faster than a Speeding Bullet
Despite their trepidation about Garland, Cleveland defenders have been toiling on fast-break drills, mimicking Indiana's breakneck pace.
"We can't change who we are," Atkinson said. "That's an interesting take on this series because they're so high-paced, they have to play more guys. ... Defensively, we just have to be really focused."
This series isn't just about stopping the Pacers' fast breaks; it's about endurance, identity, and execution. For the Cavaliers, Game 1 is a test of their mettle, whether with Garland at full strength or not.
"We trust our depth," Atkinson said. "Indiana is not just fast; they're deep. They survived the star-heavy Milwaukee Bucks by rotating through nine or ten players without losing rhythm."
Regardless of the outcome, one thing remains certain—the Cavaliers have to be ready to adapt and respond to whatever challenges the Pacers throw their way. Whether Garland plays or not, the Cavs' postseason trajectory depends on their resilience and readiness. Stay tuned for updates as the Eastern Conference Semifinals unfold.
- The odds for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2025 NBA playoffs could be affected by the status of Darius Garland, citing his left great toe sprain.
- If Garland is unable to play, the Cavaliers might need to consider altering their starting lineup, with options like Sam Merrill, Isaac Okoro, or Ty Jerome potentially stepping up.
- Regardless of the starting lineup, the Cavaliers' offensive strategy might not change drastically, with players like Ty Jerome showcasing a pull-up game that could prove useful.
- The pace of the Indiana Pacers could prove challenging for the Cavaliers, even without Garland, as they work to maintain their defense against the Pacers' fast breaks.
- Despite any setbacks, the Cavaliers' postseason success will be based on their resilience, adaptability, and readiness to respond to the challenges posed by the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
