It’s amazing how different the Cleveland Cavaliers look when Darius Garland is on the court. That was apparent as the Cavs pulled off a 120-109 victory over the struggling Indiana Pacers.
The final score
wasn’t necessarily impressive. An 11-point win over one of the worst teams in the league typically isn’t something to write home about. But the Cavs’ offense looked more like the idealized version of themselves for one of the few times so far this season. That wasn’t an accident.
Garland had a good second return to the lineup. He made his season debut against the Philadelphia 76ers on Nov. 5. Reaggregating the toe injury, which required surgery this summer, two outings later required him to miss Cleveland’s last five games.
Garland finished the game with 20 points and seven assists. His ability to get downhill and playmake after being in the paint transformed how the offense could attack.
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Donovan Mitchell also benefited greatly from the return of his backcourt running mate. He put up a seemingly effortless 32 points, nine rebounds, and five assists in the victory.
Evan Mobley stepped up in Jarrett Allen’s absence (finger). He provided 22 points on 7-13 shooting with 12 rebounds, four assists, and four blocks.
De’Andre Hunter added in 20 points and seven rebounds.
The Pacers were led by 32 points from Andrew Nembhard. Pascal Siakam finished with 26 points on an efficient 9-15 shooting with nine rebounds.
The win brings the Cavs’ NBA Cup record to 2-1. They have a point differential of +33.
The Cavaliers are back in action. They host the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday evening.
