Garland steps into leadership role amid Clippers’ turmoil

Darius Garland is leaning into a larger leadership role with the Clippers after a turbulent stretch marked by his departure from Cleveland and the trade that sent Kawhi Leonard to Toronto. Speaking with Marc J. Spears, Garland said the drive he felt after leaving the Cavaliers remains strong entering his eighth NBA season. He admitted the trade and surrounding noise made it seem as if he had fallen out of favor league‑wide, fueling his push to reclaim his All‑Star level.

Garland joined Los Angeles in February in the deal that moved James Harden to Cleveland, averaging 19.9 points and 6.4 assists on efficient shooting in nineteen games. Since then, the franchise has undergone further change, losing its longtime centerpiece and confronting organizational uncertainty. Garland insists his mindset is unchanged: he was asked to lead, bring energy, play faster and move the ball, and he believes the group has already taken meaningful steps forward.