The Cleveland Cavaliers are rolling in the playoffs. They’re up to a 2-0 lead versus the Toronto Raptors, and are eyeing a sweep. This wasn’t expected to be the case, as Toronto is an extremely competitive team, but because James Harden and Donovan Mitchell are in sync and eager to win, Cleveland is quickly making a statement.
However, last year, and those prior, Cleveland’s backcourt couldn’t obtain the level of success they’re achieving at the moment with the same foundation. Why? Well, Darius Garland was simply undersized. He never offered the Cavaliers the same frame and strength as Harden, which has made a tremendous difference and directly resulted in wins.
So, at the end of the day, Garland’s level of talent had nothing to do with constant postseason exits; he’s become a two-time all-star by the age of 26 for a reason. It was purely his fit next to Mitchell, where Harden’s is significantly better.
Cleveland saw a size advantage and agreed to the trade in a heartbeat
Despite everything Darius Garland brings to the table, like youth, size, scoring, and playmaking, size is not one of them. In fact, that’s his biggest weakness.
When the Cleveland Cavaliers heard James Harden wanted out at the deadline, they immediately called the LA Clippers, ready to throw in Garland, knowing that the veteran point guard may only be around for a short period of time.
Rightfully so, just look at the size gap; Harden is six-foot-five, 220 pounds, and has an 83-inch wingspan, which is all notably greater than Garland’s, who offers a six-foot-one frame, listed at 192 pounds, with a 77-inch wingspan.
Of course, Cleveland’s backcourt is going to benefit. That is to be expected when you insert a larger threat next to Donovan Mitchell, who has been one of the league’s best shooting guards for a while.
In fact, these two have been tearing it up in the Eastern Conference. Through two games, Harden and Mitchell are both averaging more than 25 points while shooting extremely efficiently. What they’re producing is not easy, as a season’s worth of pressure is on their shoulders, but the two superstars are getting it done and showcasing their connection in the process.
That said, while Harden might be 36 and aging by the game, Cleveland went through a blockbuster deal with the Clippers, with no hesitation, involving their franchise guard, knowing what the direct outcome would be: arguably the most dominant backcourt in basketball.
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