Kawhi Leonard Hails Darius Garland After First Game With Clippers
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The Los Angeles Clippers needed only one night to see what they believe they have in their newest back-court piece. Guard Darius Garland came off the bench for 23 minutes on Monday and scored 12 points, helping the Clippers erase a deficit and beat the Golden State Warriors 114-101.
Garland, appearing in his first contest since Jan. 14, went 4-for-9 from the floor, connected on two three-pointers and committed five turnovers. Afterward, Kawhi Leonard outlined what he expects from the two-time All-Star.
“Number one, just competitive nature,” Leonard said, via reporter Joey Linn. “We’re going to be looking at him to get us involved, get him some shots, push the pace in transition for us, and just get everybody involved and call sets so we’re not stagnant at times. I think he’s able to do that. He’s an All-Star player. I’m just looking forward to playing more basketball with him.”
Garland acknowledged a slow start before settling in. Speaking with Clippers sideline reporter Lauren Rosen, he said the opening minutes were about “knocking the cobwebs off.” He added that teammates urged him to stay aggressive, a message that helped him find a rhythm in the second half.
Los Angeles is less concerned with Garland’s first stat line and more focused on how quickly he integrates before the postseason push in April.
Source: Hoops Wire
