Cavs Face Potential Star Guard Absence for Game 3

The Cleveland Cavaliers It could be without their All-Star point guard on Saturday afternoon. Darius Garland joined the injury list on Friday before Game 3 against the Miami Heat. He is officially considered questionable due to a left big toe sprain.

Garland previously appeared on the injury report due to a toe strain. He missed two regular-season games against the Indiana Pacers as a result of this injurydesignation. April 10 and April 13 .

This postseason, Garland has shown significant improvement from last year. Averaging 24 points with shooting percentages of .516/.412/.900 and contributing seven assists per game across the two playoff matches he has participated in so far, his performance has significantly boosted the Cavaliers' play when he is on the court. +11.9 net rating ).

We'll find out how head coach Kenny Atkinson manages the starting lineup should Garland be unavailable. Given past performances during the regular season, either Sam Merrill or Isaac Okoro might step into Garland’s role. Moreover, Ty Jerome is expected to have more playing time since the Cavaliers will require additional assistance with ball handling if Garland misses the game.

The Cavaliers currently hold the upper hand with a 2-0 series advantage. It seems unlikely for them to lose four out of their next five games against a Heat squad they possess significantly greater talent than, particularly when Garland isn’t playing. Nonetheless, overcoming teams such as these might prove difficult for them. Boston Celtics If Garland isn't fully fit later in the playoffs.

Ensuring Garland remains fit throughout the rest of the playoff push must be Cleveland's primary focus.

The lone Cavalier listed as injured is Garland. Meanwhile, for the Heat, both Kevin Love (for personal reasons) and Terry Rozier (with an ankle issue) are sidelined.