2 studs and 1 dud for the Cavaliers in Sunday’s win over Lakers

Cavaliers studs in their win at the Lakers: Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland

After both Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell missed Friday night’s game in Detroit, they made their presence felt on Sunday afternoon in LA.

This was Garland’s third game of the season after missing time due to an eye injury, and that last absence was because of a knee sprain, which was seemingly minor, though. Regardless, he responded in a big way against the Lakers, especially in the first half. With Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen getting into foul trouble in the opening half, the Cavaliers turned to their All-Star backcourt for the offense.

The backcourt did respond as Garland scored 21 points in the first half, which helped keep Cleveland in the ball game. While Garland cooled off in the second half with just three points, his early scoring was crucial for the Cavaliers.

While Garland looked to score in the first half, he dished out five assists in the second half, showing he can get his teammates involved just as well as he can get offense for himself.

As for Mitchell, his Cavalier career has gotten off to an unbelievable start. Mitchell, who also had 21 points in the first half, does a great job directing the offense and knowing when to attack and when to be a facilitator.

He and Garland seemingly sensed the Cavaliers needed them to focus on scoring, and they responded well.

Through just a few games together, Mitchell and Garland have displayed why they will be such a tough tandem to defend. Both players can score the ball from all three levels, and they also can get their teammates involved as they see the court incredibly well.

While the Cavaliers were impressive in their second-half comeback win, not everyone could get into a rhythm for the Wine and Gold.