Toe sprains and triple teams sounds like both the name of a terrible song, and the exact combination capable of preventing All-Stars from making seismic impacts during long-awaited returns. Through one lightning-quick drive, though, Darius Garland merely added them to a running list of obstacles that, ironically, wouldn’t prevent him from getting a step on the Indiana Pacers' defense. Recognizing the all-but-guaranteed speed advantage against the 6-foot-10 Thomas Bryant, Garland uses a quick-hitting handle that allows VIP access through the floor’s middle. Having long mapped out the blueprint as three different Pacers defenders converge, Garland whips a no-look dish through the interior, positioning his all-world big man for an unbothered jam. Garland’s sheer presence — in that it allowed his 43-point-scoring backcourt partner strategic resting opportunities — was, perhaps, his greatest contribution in May 9, 2025’s season-saving win. Garland’s box score, nevertheless, told similar stories of his impact, as the Cleveland Cavaliers’ guard produced a 10-point, three-assist, two-triple contribution in 25 minutes. · May 9, 2025