Cleveland Cavaliers: Setting realistic goals for each rookie

Darius Garland

Goal: Coexist alongside Collin Sexton  

This goal is more difficult to measure than the others on our list, but it is arguably the most important. Darius Garland is looking to have more than a successful individual season, he must find a way to coexist alongside Collin Sexton as well.

The Cleveland Cavaliers took a risk selecting Garland in the 2019 NBA Draft. Cleveland already had a promising young point guard in Sexton and didn’t necessarily need to find him a backcourt mate. Instead, the Cavs may have been better drafting a wing or big man.

Nonetheless, Garland’s skill set was too much for the Cavaliers to pass up. A gifted offensive player, Garland is a three-level scorer. In five games for Vanderbilt, Garland averaged 16.2 points on 53. 7percent shooting.

There is no question that he can score. However, how will Garland perform with another rising star next to him? Neither DG or Sexton are exceptional playmakers, sparking concern over their partnership. Furthermore, their defensive capabilities are doubtful as both are lacking in size.

In order to make this work, both will have to adapt. Garland must place an emphasis on becoming a better playmaker and be willing to share the spotlight. These two guards have bright futures and can become even better if they learn how to work together.

Garland’s goal is to adjust his game and grow alongside Sexton. It will take the combination of both players efforts to successfully merge together. If they manage to do it, the Cavaliers will soon have a star pairing in the backcourt.