After their seventh straight win in their matchup against the Grizzlies, the Cleveland Cavaliers head coach, Kenny Atkinson, had quite an optimistic outlook about Darius Garland’s availability. In fact, he was looking forward to seeing him on the floor against the Magic. “My amateur opinion is this is probably one [game without Garland]. … I think I’d anticipate him being ready very, very soon. I’m not going to guarantee next game, but I’d say trending that way,” Atkinson noted. Unfortunately, all signs point to the opposite of this.

Per Sam Amico of HoopsWire.com, the 25-year-old has been confirmed to be OUT in their first visit to Orlando after last season’s insane first-round playoff series. Garland had been questionable going into tonight’s matchup, thanks to a hip contusion. Missing his second straight game, the young guard had sustained the injury after a nasty fall against the Knicks on Friday.

However, he had gone through portions of Cleveland’s Tuesday morning shoot-around. In fact, Darius Garland even conducted an individual workout following that, giving the hope that his return was sooner than expected. Then again, ‘The 216’ might just be going the cautious route, considering the big East showdown vs reigning champs, the Celtics on Friday.

Ranking at the top now with a 47-10 record, the Cavs could use all the help they can get when they take on Boston at TD Garden. While the team’s core four have stayed healthy for the vast majority of the season, 2024-25 has been one of uncertainties. Going back to Garland; with his unavailability, the starting lineup consists of Isaac Okoro, Donovan Mitchell, Max Strus, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen.

Yup, the same Allen who had also sustained a right index finger sprain vs New York. Against Memphis, No. 31 had suited up but wore equipment to support his injured finger. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see him in the same look tonight as well.

Needless to say, the responsibility now falls on other playmakers like Mitchell and Caris LeVert to carry the offense. The Magic, known for their physical defense, could pose a tough challenge if the Cavaliers find themselves without their primary floor general. That said, it seems Orlando could have their own problems to worry about.

Orlando Magic’s Depth in Question After Major Setbacks

The Orlando Magic are grappling with their own set of adversities. Center Moritz Wagner has been ruled out for the season due to a torn ACL. This has resulted in a significant blow to the team’s frontcourt depth. Additionally, guard Jalen Suggs is sidelined with a left quadriceps contusion. This further depleted their backcourt options. These absences have forced the Magic to rely heavily on their remaining roster.

The loss of Wagner, who was averaging 12.9 points and 4.9 rebounds per game before his injury, leaves a void in both scoring and defensive capabilities. Suggs’ injury exacerbates the situation, as his playmaking and defensive tenacity are integral to the Magic’s backcourt dynamics. In their absence, players like Franz Wagner and Cole Anthony will need to elevate their performances to compensate for the missing production.

For Orlando, this game presents an opportunity to capitalize on a Cleveland team missing one of its top playmakers. However, the Magic’s own injury struggles mean they’re facing a similar challenge—finding ways to produce offensively without key contributors.

At the end of the day, this contest serves as a litmus test for both teams’ resilience and strategic flexibility. Can the Cavaliers extend their winning streak without Darius Garland? Will the Magic’s remaining core step up in the absence of Wagner and Suggs? While the spotlight might be on tonight’s outcome, Cleveland’s bigger concern remains ensuring Garland is fully recovered in time for their looming showdown against the Celtics.