In a closely contested game, the Cleveland Cavaliers fell to the Miami Heat 140-138 in overtime on March 25, 2024. The loss was further complicated by the departure of star guard Darius Garland, who left the matchup in the third quarter due to a toe injury on his left foot.
Garland’s injury raises concerns, as it is uncertain whether he aggravated the same toe issue that required surgery during the offseason. Following the game, Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson stated, “Yeah, I haven’t gotten an update yet. Obviously couldn’t continue, took a fall there and tried to come back. So we’ll get an update here soon.”
Earlier in the season, Garland missed the first seven games due to this persistent injury. His return to the court marked only his third game back, making the situation even more pressing for the Cavaliers as they navigate a competitive season.
Atkinson elaborated on Garland’s determination to play despite the discomfort, saying, “Darius, he wanted to give it another try. And then went back at it and then just couldn’t continue.” The team now faces uncertainty regarding his status moving forward, which could impact their performance in upcoming games.
The Cavaliers will be looking to assess Garland’s condition as they prepare for their next match. The team hopes to have clarity on his health, which is crucial as they strive for a strong finish in the season.
