Darius Garland made his debut for the Clippers on Monday, appearing for the first time since being acquired from Cleveland in the trade that sent James Harden to the Cavaliers.
In the win over Golden State, Garland finished with 12 points, two rebounds and two assists in 23 minutes. It was his first game action since Jan. 14 due to a toe injury.
“Just getting adjusted,” Garland said, per The Athletic’s Law Murray. “Getting adjusted to L.A., getting to know the guys. Getting to know the staff, everybody around the organization, and just trying to get back to me. Getting healthy – training staff been with me a lot and doing a lot of work. So I really appreciate them, just getting me back to this point. Yeah, man, it’s good getting out there with the guys for sure. Especially getting a win, my first win with the Clips. It’s a blessing.”
Kawhi Leonard said he’s excited about what Garland can bring to the team as they build chemistry on the court.
“Number one, just competitive nature,” Leonard said of what Garland brings to the Clippers’ point guard spot. “But every situation is different. So from Darius, we’re looking at him to get us involved, get him some shots. Pushing the pace in transition for us. And just getting everybody involved and calling sets so we’re not stagnant at times. So I think he’s able to do that. He’s an All-Star player. Just looking forward to playing more basketball with him. More minutes, as he ramps up to playing 30-plus minutes per game.”
Garland is expected to make his home debut on Wednesday against the Pacers.
Pacific Notes: Garland, Leonard, Kleber, Thiero, Bouyea https://t.co/YNIU1vTuwt pic.twitter.com/yDBSeanUh4
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) March 4, 2026
