Cavs' Mitchell and Garland: Key to Backcourt Stability or Future Split?

The Cleveland Cavaliers' backcourt duo of Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland are facing a crucial season for their long-term viability together. Their previous playoffs featured struggles, including a negative net rating when both were on the court, raising questions about their fit as a pair. Despite these challenges, the Cavaliers believe they can be successful with both guards, emphasizing that past poor performance is largely due to Garland's injuries and lack of rhythm. Going forward, both players must find ways to be effective, especially in high-stakes scenarios, or risk their future as a duo.

Through the numbers

• Cavs had a net rating of +8.4 last season with Mitchell and Garland.
• The duo's net rating was -3.8 in two playoff series in which both appeared together.
• Garland averaged over 20 points, 7 assists and shot over 40% from three in his most efficient season.

state of affairs

• Garland endured a season interrupted by injury and struggled to find consistency.
• New head coach Kenny Atkinson wants to optimize his style of play with an emphasis on pace and spacing.

What's next?

As the season progresses, Mitchell and Garland will need to adjust to Atkinson's system and demonstrate their ability to succeed together, especially in playoff scenarios. Their performance will be closely monitored to assess whether they can maintain a successful partnership.

Conclusion

The Cavaliers' future depends on Mitchell and Garland's ability to coexist effectively on the court. Their commitment to the team shows they believe in their partnership, but improving their synergy is critical to Cleveland's success.