Cleveland Cavaliers: Darius Garland season preview

Offense

Darius Garland is a gifted player offensively. His game has drawn comparisons to that of former Cleveland Cavaliers All-Star, Kyrie Irving. Both players display a tight handle with enough creativity to pull off the incredible.

Entering his rookie season, Garland is already an elite shooter. Garland knocked down 11-of-23 total 3-point attempts in his five games at Vanderbilt. He showed range on his shot with the capability to pull off of the dribble from distance.

On top of this, Garland has a lightning-quick release. His speed and handle make it difficult for defenders to keep up as he poses a threat to shoot from every spot on the floor. Garland can use his shot as a tool to open up drives to the rim.

At the rim, Garland is an efficient finisher. He is crafty in finding holes in the defense and can absorb contact when driving into the paint. Garland is exceptional at using his body to shield off defenders and can finish with either hand. Overall, DG shot 53.7 percent from the floor in college.

His biggest concern is playmaking. Garland will be asked to create for others this season as he and Collin Sexton share the backcourt. Neither Sexton or Garland have shown to be playmakers yet, but, Garland seems to have more promise.

Though he averaged just 2.6 assists per game with Vanderbilt, Garland’s style lends us to believe he will be a better passer than Sexton. Garland is far more under control when attacking the defense, whereas Sexton relies heavily on his downhill speed to get to his spots. This means Garland will have an easier time reading the floor and making the correct pass.

Overall, Garland is very close to having the complete package offensively. He has skill in each category. All it will take is proper development for Garland to become an offensive weapon at some point in his career.