The instant Darius Garland’s arrival at the LA Clippers was announced Tuesday evening, fans have wanted to see him debut as soon as possible. They are ultimately eager to evaluate how the two-time All-Star fits into a backcourt Harden ran for years, yet the problem with his first game as a Clipper is that he is expected to return early February, as he is dealing with a toe injury. This reveals Tyronn Lue’s plan: start Kobe Sanders, the same way when Harden was absent, and progress accordingly until Garland comes back.
In fact, Garland has not played since January 14th, and on the 18th, he was ruled out for at least a week.
Thus, well over seven days have passed, meaning Garland will be back soon. The Clippers traded for him, likely knowing he would not be out long, yet in the meantime, Sanders must be in takeover mode, keeping the newly acquired guard’s spot warm next to Kawhi Leonard.
The Clippers have reason to depend on Kobe Sanders while Darius Garland recovers
There will certainly be tension in the air at the Intuit Dome as the two recent trade partners, the LA Clippers and Cleveland Cavaliers, will be facing off for a win on February 4th.
The coincidental aspect of this sequence, which feels like one in a million, is that the Clippers and Cavaliers play each other twice this season, and the day after the blockbuster trade was made is the second matchup.
Yet, fans should know to look no further, as Kobe Sanders will save the day. He is having a phenomenal season, averaging 7.2 points while shooting 46.2% from the field and 39.8% from beyond the arc.
Sanders has been the ideal starter when needed. In addition to the reality that he has become comfortable with the pressure, the 2025 second-round pick is coming off a 17-point, seven-for-ten shooting performance versus the Philadelphia 76ers.
That said, the trade was just made official by the Clippers and Cavaliers. Papers went through, team physicals were passed, and with all cleared, fans will let time do the work and wait for Garland to suit up for LA.
If anything, Garland can ease his way on the court in a smooth manner. The Clippers do not need the toe injury he is facing to linger by rushing the process, and from a bird's eye view, everything will be just fine, especially considering the type of rookie season Sanders is having.