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Darius Garland Makes Clippers History Against Mavericks
Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Clippers have been battling in a tightly contested Western Conference after a rough 6-21 start to the season, leaving little optimism early on. However, with the return of Kawhi Leonard, the team turned things around and climbed back into the No. 8 seed, showing signs of a strong resurgence.

At the trade deadline, the Clippers made a major move, sending James Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for Garland. While the deal was initially questioned, both teams have benefited.

Garland has made an immediate impact in Los Angeles, including a historic performance against Dallas, becoming the first player in franchise history to record 40 or more points, 10 or more assists, and seven or more three-pointers in a single game.

Following Garland’s historic performance, the Clippers continue to push up the standings, currently sitting as the No. 8 seed in the Western Conference. Through 35 games this season, including nine with the Clippers, the guard is averaging 18.9 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 6.9 assists while shooting 46.2% from the field and 40.0% from three-point range.

Garland has quickly become a seamless fit in Los Angeles, providing the scoring and playmaking the team needed. Paired with Forward Leonard, who is averaging 28.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists across 55 games while shooting 50.5% from the field and 38.7% from three, the duo has helped elevate the team’s performance.

Their production has played a key role in the Clippers’ turnaround and validates the trade, showing that the move has strengthened the roster and improved the team’s long-term outlook.

LA Clippers guard Darius Garland (10) points against the Sacramento Kings during the second quarter at Intuit Dome. © Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images

Former Vanderbilt star and the No. 5 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, Garland has developed into one of the league’s top guards. A two-time All-Star, he has elevated his game with elite shooting, ball handling, and shot creation.

His ability to operate in the pick-and-roll, combined with a high basketball IQ, allows him to score efficiently while creating opportunities for teammates. Garland’s offensive versatility makes him a constant threat, whether attacking the rim or spacing the floor from beyond the arc.

In Los Angeles, Garland has stepped into a key role, providing consistent scoring and playmaking alongside the team’s core players. His presence adds balance to the offense and gives the Clippers a younger, dynamic guard to build around.

Garland is currently on a five-year, $197 million contract that runs through the 2027–28 season, positioning him as a potential long-term cornerstone for the franchise.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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