What Cavaliers, J.B. Bickerstaff Are Looking For From Darius Garland

J.B. Bickerstaff is stressing to Darius Garland to "be himself" with the Cleveland Cavaliers offense.

No one is going to deny it's been a difficult season for Darius Garland. We also can't deny what he brings to the Cleveland Cavaliers when he's playing at a high level. 

So, how can J.B. Bickerstaff and the Cavs help get him back to that version in the final stretch before the playoffs?

Bickerstaff spoke during the team's first practice back from the All-Star Break on what he's looking for from Garland and what his message is to the point guard heading into the final 29 games of the season. 

"Just be himself and play basketball like he's capable of," said Cleveland's head coach. "He knows where his strengths are. He's elite when he's comfortable and he plays within himself and he plays his game. It's been hard for him being in and out and there was a time when there was so much choppiness and the changes that we were making."

"His message is the same as everybody else's message: 'Be the most aggressive, confident version of yourself.' Again, we've all seen what happens when he's that. Whatever he needs to be more comfortable that's on me to help him. We just want him to play confidently, play selfless, and compete for his tail off."

Nov 25, 2023; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland (10) drives to the basket against Los Angeles Lakers guard Max Christie (10) during the first half at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports / © Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

Bickerstaff also mentioned on Wednesday that DG will finally be lifted off of his minutes restriction following his return from a fractured jaw. This can't be downplayed when discussing his inconsistencies either.

Hopefully, no more limitations will lead to Garland feeling more comfortable on the floor and him returning to his All-Star form.