Danny Cunningham here, the host of the daily Locked On Cavs podcast, with your daily Locked On Cavs newsletter. Each day we bring you the biggest stories about the Cavs and the NBA, including the hottest links to other stories you need to read. Plus, Josh Lloyd delivers daily fantasy notes to crush your league.
Darius Garland’s 40-Point Masterpiece Propels Cavs to 12th Straight Win
The Cleveland Cavaliers extended their winning streak to 12 games with a 132-126 victory over the Toronto Raptors, thanks to a spectacular performance from Darius Garland. The young guard showcased his All-Star caliber skills, dropping 40 points and dishing out 9 assists in a game that solidified his case for a spot in the upcoming All-Star Game.
Garland’s efficiency was remarkable, shooting 14-of-22 from the field and 4-of-7 from beyond the arc. His 25-point second-half explosion proved crucial in securing the win for the Cavs, who were playing on the second night of a back-to-back following an emotional victory against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
This performance places Garland in elite company, becoming only the fourth player in Cavaliers history to record five or more 40-point games, joining LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, and Donovan Mitchell. The significance of this achievement cannot be overstated, especially considering the Cavs’ current standing as the best team in basketball with a 33-4 record.
Garland’s ability to lead the team to victory without Donovan Mitchell in the lineup further emphasizes his importance to the Cavaliers’ success. His playmaking skills were on full display, proving that he’s not just a scorer but a complete offensive threat capable of elevating his teammates’ performances.
The Case for Multiple All-Stars
With Garland’s recent performances, the conversation about the Cavaliers potentially having four All-Stars this season has gained traction. Evan Mobley’s continued improvement, particularly his expanding offensive repertoire, makes him a strong candidate. Jarrett Allen’s dominant performances in recent weeks, especially his impressive showings in back-to-back games, strengthen his case for a second All-Star selection.
The Cavaliers’ historic start to the season, including being one of only four teams in NBA history to have two 12-game winning streaks within their first 40 games, adds weight to the argument for multiple All-Star selections. The team’s success, coupled with individual brilliance, could sway coaches’ votes in favor of rewarding the Cavs’ collective achievement.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Cavaliers’ All-Star prospects and recent performances, tune into the Locked On Cavs podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Cavs Podcast:
• Max Strus finding his groove with back-to-back strong performances
• Isaac Okoro’s struggles since returning from injury
• The Cavs’ upcoming matchup against the Indiana Pacers
Jan 4, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) reacts after making a three point basket against the Atlanta Hawks during the first half at Intuit Dome. | Kiyoshi Mio/Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
Kawhi Leonard left the Clippers behind in Denver on Wednesday, he travelled solo back to Los Angeles to meet his family as they evacuated their home in the Pacific Palisades. As of Thursday, the Palisades Fire — the biggest of the five separate fires burning in L.A. — has scorched through close to 20,000 acres of land, homes, buildings and infrastructure. Leonard’s family and their home are safe, and because natural disasters thankfully still trump the audience demand for athlete participation, Leonard’s also able to be away from the team and focus on what’s most important.
Not to draw too flimsy a point between disaster and basketball, but Leonard’s return to the Clippers had been top of mind for me prior to the fires, and his necessary absence now offers another lens to view his prolonged absence this season.
After he was pulled from Team USA’s Olympic play this summer, Leonard underwent a surgical procedure on his right knee. It’s same knee he had surgically repaired after an ACL tear in 2021 and a meniscus tear in April 2023, as well as the quad injury that eventually led to him parting ways with the Spurs over concerns of recovery mismanagement.
Katie Heindl is a credentialed NBA and WNBA writer, her bylines have appeared with The New York Times Magazine, SLAM, The Athletic, Yahoo Sports, Dime, Rolling Stone, among others. She writes the bestselling Substack, Basketball Feelings and is working on a book of the same name.
Home and Away
Prediction Donovan Mitchell made a huge prediction about Evan Mobley’s future, expressing confidence in his potential to become one of the NBA’s elite players. (Sports Illustrated)
Ranking The NBA Power Rankings place the Cavaliers in a competitive position as they approach the trade deadline, reflecting their solid performance and potential for further success. (Bleacher Report)
Analysis With the trade deadline approaching, the Cavaliers face tough questions about their roster and strategic decisions to enhance their playoff push. (Bleacher Report)
Must Read Steve Kerr and JJ Redick share the impact of the Los Angeles fires on their families’ lives. (ESPN)
Biz Aging NBA stars like Jimmy Butler may be in for a rude awakening. (Forbes)
Friday’s NBA Fantasy Basketball Slate: Injury Updates and Streaming Options
Jan 8, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Guerschon Yabusele (28) drives against Washington Wizards forward Richaun Holmes (22) during the fourth quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images | Bill Streicher/Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
The NBA action continues with seven games on tap for Friday, and there’s no shortage of intriguing storylines to follow. Let’s dive into the key matchups and player situations that fantasy managers need to keep an eye on.
New Orleans Pelicans vs. Philadelphia 76ers
The Pelicans-Sixers matchup is plagued by absences on both sides. For New Orleans, Herb Jones (shoulder), Brandon Ingram, and Trey Murphy (ankle) are all sidelined. However, Zion Williamson is set to return after sitting out the previous game. The Sixers will continue to be without Joel Embiid, Andre Drummond, and KJ Martin.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Orlando Magic
The Magic are on a back-to-back, while the Bucks are in a favorable schedule spot. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, and Khris Middleton are all listed as probable for Milwaukee. Orlando will be without Gary Harris, and Jalen Suggs is expected to remain sidelined. Paolo Banchero is reportedly set to return for this game.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Cavs podcasts.
DG’s 40-ball The Cavs pushed their winning streak to 12 games on Thursday night thanks to Darius Garland dropping 40 points on the Toronto Raptors.
Showcase Win over OKC Cleveland took on Oklahoma City on Wednesday night and came away with the best win of the NBA season. How far can this Cavs team go?
Don’t Go Chasing Records Now The Cavs are currently on pace to win 73 games. Should that be the goal for the season?
