For years, Cleveland Cavaliers fans wanted to see more from Darius Garland.
He was an intriguing prospect who showed glimpses of greatness, but he had yet to take a leap forward.
Just when it seemed like he was ready to become a star and even made an All-Star team, he regressed again.
That’s why seeing him be more aggressive and assertive this season has been so refreshing.
While he’s been more eager to take shots, he’s also been more careful with the basketball.
With that in mind, Sam Amico and Nick Pedone raved about him in the latest edition of the “Full Court Cleveland” podcast.
Darius Garland leads the #Cavs into battle with a bruised 76ers team tonight. #LetEmKnow
"He's valuing possessions, taking care of the ball, and forcing nothing."
"He can also go out there and get 39 points if he needs to."
– @NickPedone12 pic.twitter.com/QqpUDrvP0X
— Full Court Cleveland (@FullCourtCLE) November 13, 2024
We already know what Donovan Mitchell is capable of; there’s a reason why the team went all-in to get him and then signed him to a contract extension.
But a team is only as good as the sum of its parts, and he needs someone to help him carry the load on offense.
Garland isn’t the kind of player who’ll score 30 points a night, but he’s shown that he’s more than capable of doing so when needed.
It’s never been a matter of talent or skill with him; it seemed more of a matter of attitude and demeanor.
Also, he’s healthy after an injury-riddled season, and it seems like Kenny Atkinson, who knows a thing about coaching scoring guards, is bringing the best out of his game.
Garland is playing like an All-Star, and that’s always a positive for this team.
NEXT: Austin Carr Reveals His Expectations For Cavs This Season
