Point guard Darius Garland, recently traded from the Cavaliers to the Clippers, won't be hitting the court for his new team just yet. Garland is currently practicing on a limited basis due to a toe injury that's kept him sidelined since January 14. He's managing a right toe sprain along with issues related to his surgically repaired left great toe.
Garland's status is week-to-week, and while Clippers fans can expect to see him play this season, his debut is likely on hold until March. The Clippers are taking a cautious approach, ensuring he's fully recovered before he suits up.
Garland joined the Clippers along with a second-round pick in exchange for James Harden. After a slow start this season, Garland found his rhythm in December and January, bringing his stats back to his career averages. In 26 starts for Cleveland, he posted 18.0 points, 6.9 assists, and 2.4 rebounds per game, with shooting splits of .451/.360/.861.
With the departure of Harden and center Ivica Zubac at the trade deadline, the Clippers have been featuring a starting lineup that includes Kris Dunn as the point guard, alongside Derrick Jones Jr., Kawhi Leonard, John Collins, and Brook Lopez. This new configuration is something to watch as the Clippers navigate the rest of the season.