The Cleveland Cavaliers made a huge gamble when they took Darius Garland in the NBA Draft.
People weren’t that sold on him, and he drew mixed reviews among scouts, and it’s not like fans had a lot to film to watch.
There were size and injury concerns; he didn’t look explosive, was often careless with the ball and turnover-prone, and was a bit of a streaky shooter.
However, the upside as a scorer and facilitator was evident, and the Cavs weren’t in a rush to have him turn into a star.
Fortunately for them, Garland panned out pretty well.
He was so good, that he even convinced the team that he should be their point guard going forward, opening the door for them to get rid of Collin Sexton and pursue Donovan Mitchell instead.
Garland has posted All-Star-caliber numbers in back-to-back seasons yet, and the best part is that he’s just turned 23, as the NBA recently announced on social media.
Join us in wishing @dariusgarland22 of the @cavs a HAPPY 23rd BIRTHDAY! #NBABDAY pic.twitter.com/Hs9sMxe1H0
— NBA (@NBA) January 26, 2023
At such a ripe age, Garland is already making a case for being one of the best backcourt players in the Eastern Conference, leading the Cavs to contention with averages of 21.7 points, 2.9 rebounds, 8.0 assists, 1.3 steals, and 2.4 three-pointers on 44/36/86 shooting.
He’s been great at spreading the wealth and getting all his teammates involved in the offense, and Mitchell has been a perfect complement for him in the backcourt.
The Cavs are one of the most promising teams in the Association, and Garland has plenty to do with that.
And the best part is that he’s still years away from reaching his prime.
NEXT: Cavaliers Big Man Is Having A Stellar Second Season
