Darius Garland sends message to Clippers staff after debut win

Nearly a month had passed since the Cleveland Cavaliers dealt him in a blockbuster trade, and Monday night finally brought Darius Garland's first game in a Los Angeles Clippers uniform.

The debut came at a crucial time. The Clippers pulled away in the fourth quarter and locked down a 114-101 road victory over the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center. Garland provided solid minutes in his return, finishing with 12 points on 4-of-9 shooting. He did commit five turnovers, which led the team on the night.

The 26-year-old guard had not played since Jan. 14 due to injuries affecting both of his big toes. With his health trending upward and his availability no longer in question, the timing might prove meaningful. Los Angeles sits at 29-31 right now, and every game matters from here on out.

Darius Garland praises Clippers staff after debut

Garland made it clear after the game that the organization's medical staff deserves credit for getting him ready to take the floor, per RTB Sports' Farbod Esnaashari.

"Just getting adjusted to LA, getting to know the guys, the staff, everybody around the organization. And just trying to get back to me, getting healthy. The training staff's been with me a lot, been doing a lot of work. Really appreciate them just getting me back to this point. It's good being out there with the guys for sure, especially getting a win, my first win with the Clips. It's a blessing," Garland said.