The Los Angeles Clippers are finally getting a look at their shiny new toy. After weeks of waiting and disappointing performances on the sidelines, All-Star guard Darius Garland is ready to make his season debut.
Sources indicate Garland plans to dress on Monday night when the Clippers host the Golden State Warriors at the Intuit Dome. It marks a major turn around for a franchise that has struggled since acquiring the former Cleveland Cavaliers star in the blockbuster James Harden trade.
Garland has not played since January 14 due to a serious toe injury. The layoff was long, but the timing of his return couldn't have been better. The Clippers have spent the last month focusing heavily on their depth, and adding a dynamic playmaker of Garland's caliber completely changes the scope of this roster.
During his last healthy outing in Cleveland, the 24-year-old averaged 20.6 points and 6.7 assists to go along with the walking bucket, while shooting 47.2 percent from the field. His ability to navigate the pick-and-roll and knock down shots from deep provides a much-needed secondary scoring option alongside the existing core.
The matchup against the Warriors serves as a high-level litmus test. While the coaching staff will likely monitor his minutes as he regains his playing legs, Garland's presence alone will loosen things up for the rest of the offense.
For a Clippers team trying to solidify its identity in the crowded Western Conference, Monday night isn't just another regular season game. This is the beginning of the Darius Garland era in Los Angeles. If he can recapture the All-Star form that has made him one of the most coveted guards on the market, the rest of the league is officially on notice.
