NBA Roundup: Garland’s Return Lifts Cavs, Edwards Comes Back for Wolves, Knicks Stay Perfect at Home
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CLEVELAND — Darius Garland played his first game of the season Wednesday night and helped the Cavaliers beat the Philadelphia 76ers, 132-121.
The All-Star guard logged 26 minutes, finishing with eight points and four assists, but his impact went beyond the box score.
“Seeing the ball go through the hoop, passing the ball to Donovan, Evan and Jarrett for sure,” Garland said. “It was great to be back with the teammates.” He acknowledged his conditioning still has to improve, adding, “When the first three-pointer fell, it felt good.”
Donovan Mitchell poured in a season-high 46 points. “When you have a guy that can initiate, get the easy shots and make everyone’s job easier, it puts everyone at ease,” Mitchell said.
Coach Kenny Atkinson praised Garland’s influence. “Those first seven minutes, that was Cavs basketball,” he said after Cleveland opened a 30-13 advantage. The win moved the Cavaliers to 5-2.
Timberwolves
NEW YORK — Anthony Edwards scored 15 points in his return from a hamstring injury, but Minnesota surrendered 83 second-half points and fell to the Knicks, 137-114, at Madison Square Garden.
“It felt like forever,” Edwards said of missing time. He and the Timberwolves (4-4) committed 17 turnovers, leading to 19 extra New York shots.
“We got absolutely beat up on the glass — 31 second-chance points,” coach Chris Finch said. “They beat us to every loose ball.” Edwards added, “We’re never going to win like that.”
Knicks
Karl-Anthony Towns, facing his former team, registered 15 points, 10 rebounds, four assists and two blocks as New York improved to 5-0 at home.
“I feel more like a Knick now, but it’s weird,” Towns said, noting his enduring connection to Minnesota. He nearly referred to the Timberwolves as “we” during his postgame remarks. “It’s deeper than basketball. It’s family,” he added.
Edwards laughed about being dunked on by the 7-foot Towns. “He’s strong as hell and he’s 7 feet tall,” Edwards said. “At that point, somebody’s gotta come help me.”
Source: Hoops Wire
