Los Angeles Clippers guard Darius Garland acknowledged the team’s sluggish start in Saturday’s 118-109 loss to the Sacramento Kings at the Intuit Dome. “Sluggish back to back… didn’t come out with that fire like we usually do,” he said, adding that defensive intensity was lacking in the first half.
Garland highlighted the importance of having John Collins back in the lineup. “Had a full group back. He brought a lot of energy for us both ends of the floor… his presence makes a difference for sure. His voice just makes a difference for this whole team,” Garland said.
When asked about his physical condition, Garland confirmed he was healthy despite limping briefly. “I limp a little bit… No, I’m good,” he said.
On avoiding flat starts against motivated teams, Garland emphasized accountability. “Just all on us. Be ready to play for 48 minutes, not just 24 in the second half. It’s a hungry team over there… they go play as hard as they can for 48 minutes and we got to match that energy and we didn’t do it tonight,” he explained.
Garland praised Collins’ energy despite the deficit. “Even though we was down he was still positive, keeping us uplifted, keeping a group together. So it was great. It was good to have a full team back,” he added.
The Clippers struggled to match Sacramento’s tempo despite efforts in the fourth quarter. Garland said the team improved defensively in the second half, “but it was too late for me,” noting that the Kings’ balanced attack and energy made the difference.
Garland contributed 25 points as the Clippers fell to 34-33, ending a four-game winning streak. Sacramento’s Russell Westbrook recorded a triple-double, while DeMar DeRozan and Precious Achiuwa combined for 52 points and 13 rebounds, helping the Kings secure their third win in four games.
Looking ahead, Garland’s focus remains on consistency and full-game effort. “We have to be ready from the start. Every possession matters. We know we can play better,” he said.
