Mar 7, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland (10) brings the ball up court against the Charlotte Hornets during the third quarter at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Kinser-Imagn Images

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Darius Garland Celebrates Strong Form After Overcoming Challenges in 2024: ‘A Blessing’

Last season, the guard's season was impacted by his recovery from jaw surgery.

Cleveland Cavaliers point guard Darius Garland has regained his top form after facing challenges during the 2023-24 season. In an interview with Jeff Zillgitt of USA Today on Thursday, Garland discussed his recovery process following a jaw injury last season and expressed gratitude for his return to peak performance.

Garland Endured a Difficult Recovery in 2024

The injury occurred during a game against the Boston Celtics on December 14, 2023. Surgery was required to repair the damage, and the recovery process was difficult. Garland lost approximately 10% of his body mass and was sidelined for an extended period.

“The mental aspect was the hardest part—not being able to do the things I normally do,” said the 25-year-old. “This season is completely different. It’s incredible how much can change in a year. It truly is an honor. It’s a blessing to be able to do what I love and have one of my senses fully back.”

Garland missed 19 games before returning in late January. Despite contributing to Cleveland securing the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference and a playoff berth, he was not at full strength during the postseason.

Darius Garland fractured his jaw on this collision with Kristaps Porzingis https://t.co/HXaGZOuvKq pic.twitter.com/CTXNxjX3rf
— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) December 15, 2023

“I rushed back last year to get back on the court with the team,” he admitted. “That’s why I ended up nine kilograms (about 20 pounds) lighter in the second round of the playoffs, trying to compete against the [eventual] NBA champions. That was the level of my urgency.”

Resurgence Following a Challenging Season

Ultimately, Cleveland was unable to overcome Boston, losing the series 4-1. However, the team used the experience to fuel a dominant return in the 2024-25 season.

The Cavaliers currently lead the Eastern Conference with a record of 52 wins and 10 losses, sitting eight games ahead of Boston and securing a guaranteed spot in the postseason. Garland has been instrumental in the team’s success, averaging 21 points, 6.8 assists, and 1.1 steals per game while posting career-best shooting percentages – 48.1% from the field and 41.9% from three-point range.

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Additionally, Garland was one of three Cavaliers players selected for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game, alongside Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley. His performances have earned the admiration of head coach Kenny Atkinson, who is in his first season with the franchise.

“He has been exceptional in crucial moments—shooting well, defending at a high level,” Atkinson stated. “When I look around the league, he deserves to be in the top tier of players. He’s a phenomenal talent.”

The Cavaliers are currently riding a 12-game winning streak and are on pace to break the franchise’s all-time best record of 66-16, set during the 2008-09 season.