Los Angeles Roundup: Garland’s Fresh Start, Lopez Honored, Historic James Assist, Lakers Take Breather
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Darius Garland settles in with Clippers
After anticipating a move since last summer, Darius Garland says joining the Clippers has given him “a new breath of life.” The guard, traded from Cleveland during the winter, is averaging 21.3 points and 7.0 assists with Los Angeles. Garland, who is in the second season of a five-year, $197.2 million contract, noted that agent Rich Paul warned him the 2025-26 campaign could be his last in Cleveland, allowing him to brace for the transition. “When it happened, I was like, ‘Let’s do it,’” he said. He added that the Clippers’ veteran roster welcomed him immediately.
Lopez receives warm welcome in Milwaukee
The Bucks played a tribute video for Brook Lopez on Sunday when the center returned with the Clippers, the team he joined after winning a title in Milwaukee. Lopez pointed to the championship banner while acknowledging the crowd’s ovation. He finished with eight points and seven rebounds in a 14-point Los Angeles victory.
Father-to-son assist for the record books
Friday’s matchup against the Nets produced the first recorded assist from an NBA father to his son. LeBron James drew a double-team, kicked the ball to Bronny James, who faked a pass and drilled a three-pointer. “It was a special moment with us two and a lot more to come,” Bronny said. LeBron called the play “definitely a cool moment for us and also for the family.”
Lakers use rare break to reset
A two-day gap in the Lakers’ schedule allowed the club to rest before today’s game against the Wizards, a contest Dallas star Luka Dončić will miss while serving a one-game suspension for reaching the technical-foul limit. Head coach JJ Redick said players voluntarily arrived at the practice facility at 10 a.m. Sunday for a short session focused on film and minor adjustments. “It’s a great reset for us,” Redick remarked.
Source: Hoops Rumors
