After Cleveland’s dominant four-game sweep over Miami in the first round of the 2025 NBA playoffs, Heat reserve Kyle Anderson made remarks about the Cavaliers’ performance without star guard Darius Garland. Anderson suggested that the Cavs looked like a better team without Garland on the floor, as they were able to dictate the tempo and play better defense.
His comments raised eyebrows, especially given that Cleveland’s blowout victories in Games 3 and 4 came without Garland, who was sidelined due to a toe injury. Anderson’s statement sparked controversy and led to some heated responses from the Cavaliers’ side.
Cavs head coach Kenny Atkinson quickly dismissed Anderson’s remarks, asserting that Cleveland was better with their All-Star point guard on the floor. Atkinson emphasized that Garland’s presence was crucial to the team’s success.
Despite the Heat’s claims, the Cavaliers remained firm in their belief that Garland is a vital part of their success. While Anderson’s comments may have been intended to stir the pot, Atkinson made it clear that the Cavs do not buy into the idea that they are better without their star player.
Tension Escalates Between Cavs and Heat as Garland’s Absence Highlights Team Depth
The rivalry between the Cavs and Heat had been brewing before Anderson’s comments. In Game 2, Garland had stated that Cleveland’s strategy involved targeting Miami’s defensive weak links, notably Tyler Herro. This comment prompted Herro and center Bam Adebayo to respond, pointing out Garland’s own defensive weaknesses.
Kyle Anderson (NBA)Both sides had valid points, as the Cavs had indeed targeted Herro effectively, but Garland’s own struggles on defense were also apparent. This back-and-forth fueled the growing tension between the two teams.
Though the Cavs played without Garland for the final two games of the series, their victory was not solely a reflection of Garland’s absence. Cleveland’s depth and talent were key to their success. In his absence, several role players stepped up, including Ty Jerome, De’Andre Hunter, Max Strus, and Jarrett Allen.
The Cavs’ balanced team approach, which had been evident throughout the regular season, helped them secure the sweep. Hunter acknowledged that while Garland’s contributions are significant, the team’s collective effort allowed them to compensate for his absence and maintain their dominant performance.
Cavs’ Defensive Adjustments Shine; Garland’s Availability Uncertain for Upcoming Semifinals Series
Cleveland’s defense also played a significant role in the blowout victories. Without Garland on the floor, the Cavaliers’ defensive rating significantly improved, as they limited Miami to just 170 points over the last two games.
While Garland’s individual defense was often targeted, the Cavs made strategic adjustments, such as placing bigger defenders on players like Davion Mitchell and altering their pick-and-roll defense to stifle Bam Adebayo. These adjustments, along with the growing familiarity between the two teams throughout the series, allowed Cleveland to take control defensively and dominate the Heat.
As the Cavs prepare for the Eastern Conference semifinals, the status of Darius Garland remains uncertain. Garland, who has been dealing with a painful toe injury, practiced ahead of the upcoming series against Indiana, but his availability is still in question.
While Atkinson stated that Garland is day-to-day, the coach acknowledged that Garland may need to manage the injury for the remainder of the playoffs. Despite the recent success without Garland, the Cavaliers recognize his importance to the team. As De’Andre Hunter put it, Garland is a crucial leader, scorer, and playmaker, and the Cavs are hopeful he can return to help them pursue their championship aspirations.
