Cavaliers' Darius Garland Leaves Cleveland Legacy

Point guard helped lead Cavs' resurgence before joining Lakers

Feb. 4, 2026 at 2:23pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Darius Garland was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2019 as they looked to rebuild after LeBron James' departure. Though Garland struggled early on a struggling team, he developed into an All-Star-caliber player who helped the Cavs return to contention, including a 64-win season in 2022-23. While the Cavs ultimately fell short in the playoffs, Garland leaves Cleveland with a strong legacy as a skilled floor general who uplifted the franchise.

Why it matters

Garland's rise in Cleveland is significant for a small-market team that has historically struggled to develop and retain star talent. His growth into an elite point guard provided hope and excitement for Cavs fans after years in the NBA wilderness.

The details

Garland joined the Cavs as a 19-year-old lottery pick in 2019, arriving on a team in transition after LeBron James' departure. Though Garland's rookie season was rocky, he rapidly improved, showcasing his playmaking ability, scoring touch, and ability to elevate his teammates. Garland's breakout 2021-22 campaign, in which he made his first All-Star team, helped the Cavs win 64 games and return to the playoffs for the first time since LeBron left.

  • Darius Garland was drafted by the Cavaliers with the 5th overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.
  • Garland's rookie season in 2019-20 was marked by struggles as the Cavs finished with the 5th-worst record in the NBA.
  • In the 2021-22 season, Garland made his first All-Star team and helped lead the Cavs to a 64-win season.
  • After the 2022-23 season, Garland departed Cleveland to join the Los Angeles Lakers as a free agent.

The players

Darius Garland

A skilled point guard who was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2019 and developed into an All-Star-caliber player, helping lead the team's resurgence before departing for the Los Angeles Lakers as a free agent.

LeBron James

A superstar player who led the Cavaliers to four consecutive NBA Finals appearances before departing the team in 2018, leaving a void that Garland helped fill during his time in Cleveland.

Evan Mobley

A young big man who formed a strong duo with Garland as the Cavaliers returned to contention in recent seasons.

Jarrett Allen

Another key piece of the Cavaliers' core alongside Garland and Mobley, providing interior defense and rebounding.

Donovan Mitchell

An All-Star guard who joined the Cavaliers in a trade and formed a formidable backcourt partnership with Garland.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Garland will look to continue his development with the Lakers, who are hoping he can help them return to championship contention.

The takeaway

Darius Garland's time in Cleveland, though ultimately falling short of a title, will be remembered fondly by Cavaliers fans as the team's young star helped revive the franchise and provided hope for the future, even as he departs for a new challenge with the Lakers.