The Cleveland Cavaliers entered the playoffs riding high on a dominant 64-18 regular-season record. They made quick work of the Miami Heat in Round 1, sweeping them 4-0 and storming into the second round with momentum and belief.
But the Indiana Pacers had other plans. In the first two games of the series, they bested the Cavaliers, taking a 2-0 lead and forcing Cleveland to respond. And they responded strongly.
On May 9, despite the Pacers having home-court advantage, the Cavaliers roared back in Game 3 with a commanding 126-104 victory. It was a statement win, led by a total team effort. Now, as Cleveland gears up for Game 4 tonight on May 11 with hopes of evening the series at 2-2, one big question remains: Will Darius Garland suit up?
Darius Garland’s Status vs. Indiana Pacers
The good news for Cavs fans is that Garland is playing tonight. According to the latest injury report from ESPN, he’s not listed, making him fully available for Game 4 against the Pacers. This is a major boost for Cleveland, which will need every ounce of firepower to continue its comeback in the series.
Garland was previously listed as “questionable” for Game 3 due to a lingering left big toe sprain. Nevertheless, he fought through the pain and contributed 10 points in 25 minutes during the Cavaliers’ Game 3 win.
Throughout this postseason, Garland has been quietly effective, averaging 19.3 points and 5.7 assists per game, even after missing two games in each of the first two series. Those numbers might not always dominate the headlines, but Garland’s ability to control tempo, hit timely shots, and create for others is exactly what the Cavaliers need in high-stakes moments like tonight.
Even better news for Cleveland is that the entire squad is healthy and will be available for Game 4.
Along with Garland, both Evan Mobley and De’Andre Hunter were also listed as “questionable” for Game 3. Yet, both players powered through their injuries and delivered, with Mobley scoring 18 points and Hunter adding eight.
Now, with the series at 2-1 and the Cavaliers aiming to draw even, having every key player ready is a huge advantage. This Pacers team has shown they won’t go down easily, and Game 4 is shaping up to be another battle.
Garland’s Message to His Haters
After a rough start to the Eastern Conference semifinals, the Cavaliers badly needed a spark to regain the momentum they brought into the playoffs. Following Game 3, all eyes were on Garland. During the postgame interview, the Cavaliers guard didn’t hold back. He addressed his critics head-on, making it clear he’s aware of the noise but focused on the grind.
“Y’all don’t understand what I’m going through. I mean, everybody has their opinion. I’m going out there and playing basketball. Everybody has their nicks and bruises around this time. So, going out and trying to win the series,” said Garland.
According to the latest injury report by ESPN, the Pacers are entering the next game with a relatively healthy roster. For the Cavaliers to stay alive, they’ll need a collective push from stars like Donovan Mitchell, Garland, Mobley, and Hunter. The battle is far from over.