By Justin GrassoShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberThe Cleveland Cavaliers have been waiting patiently for the return of their All-Star-caliber guard, Darius Garland.
As Garland has been recovering from a toe injury, he hasn’t had the chance to log much playing time this season. The Cavs were hopeful he could make his return the lineup for Cleveland’s NBA Cup battle on Friday night.
Leading up to the matchup, the Cavaliers upgraded Garland to questionable.
...Will Darius Garland Play vs. Pacers?
As the Cavs hoped, Garland will be able to pay on Friday night. According to the team, he has been cleared for action.
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Garland made a late debut for the Cavaliers during the 2025-2026 NBA season. When the team opened up its schedule against the New York Knicks back on October 22, Garland was out. He ended up missing the first seven games of the season.
When the Cavaliers hosted the Philadelphia 76ers on November 5, Garland managed to make his debut. He checked in for 26 minutes, shooting 3-11 from the field to score eight points. He also dished out four assists.
Over the next three games, Garland made two appearances. In his third game of the season, the Cavaliers had an overtime loss against the Miami Heat. During that game, Garland checked in for just under 19 minutes of action. He struggled with his shot, making just two shots from the field, finishing with 11 points.
Garland has been out for the past five games. During that stretch, the Cavaliers have fared well by winning three games. Earlier this week, Cleveland started preparing for the eventual return of Garland.
“He’s close, Real close,” Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson told the media this week. “I think he’s itching. Think we’re right there. We’re getting real close to getting over that hump and getting him into the lineup.”
Although Garland is likely to have a restriction on his playing time, the veteran guard's return should be a nice boost for Cleveland's starting unit.
The Cavaliers and the Pacers will tip at 7 PM ET.
For all the latest NBA news and rumors, head over to Newsweek Sports.
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