The Cleveland Cavaliers faced the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday night but they were without their biggest star, Donovan Mitchell.
Because of Mitchell’s absence, many fans were hoping that Darius Garland would have an amazing night and lead the team in a big way.
Instead, the Cavaliers fell 104-97 to the Sixers, their second loss in a row.
Speaking on ESPN Cleveland, Emmett Golden said he’s not too concerned with Garland even though some fans are saying he has to do more.
“I’m not worried about Darius. The outside shot…hadn’t really been falling the way it had in past years for him. I think that’s just going to take some time for him to get in rhythm,” Golden said.
What is your concern level with Darius Garland right now? pic.twitter.com/xbmFXXIajL
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) February 23, 2024
Diehard Garland followers have called on people to be very patient with the star player because he is still finding his rhythm after weeks away from the team following a nasty jaw injury.
Since coming back at the end of January, Garland has averaged 13.8 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 6.6 assists.
His season average is currently 18.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 6.2 assists.
On Friday night, Garland shot 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 9 assists, behind only Jarrett Allen in scoring for the Cavaliers.
It was a chance for Garland and the rest of the team to show that they could win without Mitchell but instead, they couldn’t slow down Tyrese Maxey and his squad, who are still without Joel Embiid.
It’s concerning for fans to see the Cavaliers experience troubles without Mitchell, especially because there are still rumors of him leaving the team in the summer.
Golden is urging people to keep giving Garland patience, saying that he will eventually look like his regular self again but it might take time.
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