Cavaliers’ Darius Garland to Miss Games with Right Toe Injury

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland is set to miss a significant portion of the upcoming games due to a sprained right big toe. The injury occurred on January 14, 2026, during the Cavaliers’ decisive 133-107 victory against the Philadelphia 76ers. Garland’s absence will be felt as the team navigates a challenging schedule ahead.

The Cavaliers announced the injury in a release on January 18. Imaging conducted at Cleveland Clinic Sports Medicine confirmed a Grade 1 sprain, indicating a relatively mild injury. Garland is expected to undergo treatment and rehabilitation, with a re-evaluation scheduled in seven to ten days. If the recovery takes the full ten days, he will miss at least six games.

Garland had been performing well prior to the injury, averaging 18.8 points and 6.9 assists per game this season. His previous experience with toe injuries adds a layer of caution for the Cavaliers. Last season, he faced a similar issue with his left toe, which required surgery after the team was eliminated from the playoffs. That injury delayed his return, impacting his performance at the start of the current season.

With Garland sidelined, Jaylon Tyson is expected to step into the starting lineup. The Cavaliers have a packed schedule ahead, beginning with a home game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on January 19, followed by a road matchup against the Charlotte Hornets on January 21. They will then host the Sacramento Kings on January 23 and face the Orlando Magic on January 24.

The team will be eager to maintain momentum during Garland’s absence. Coach Kenny Atkinson will need to adjust strategies to keep the Cavaliers competitive as they seek to solidify their position in the league. The Cavaliers’ performance over the next week will be crucial, especially with the playoffs approaching.

As the Cavaliers prepare for the upcoming games, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team adapts without their star guard.