The Los Angeles Clippers got significantly younger at point guard, as they’ve acquired Darius Garland and a future second-round pick from the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for James Harden on Wednesday.
During a recent media availability, Los Angeles Clippers head coach Ty Lue paid tribute to Harden and expressed his excitement about working with Garland, who has yet to reach his prime.
“It’s going to be exciting. I’ve known DG for a while. Having a young point guard under my tutelage – the first time I’ve had it since Kyrie – it’s going to be fun,” Lue said of Garland via Lauren Rosen of FanDuel Sports Network West.
“We are trying to get younger while continuing to win, and Darius allows us to do both. He is a two-time All-Star who just turned 26 and is a highly skilled point guard with excellent feel. Darius is an adept shooter and passer, a quick decision-maker, and a respected teammate who has shown the ability to run an elite offense. We are excited to win with him and grow with him,” Lawrence Frank added.
Los Angeles Clippers News: Darius Garland shares first message to the fans
Darius Garland said he’s excited to suit up for the Los Angeles Clippers during his introductory press conference. During the interview, the two-time NBA All-Star said he can’t wait to play under head coach Ty Lue.
“I hope T Lue uses me like he used Kyrie in that championship run. I’m here to win games. Whatever he needs me to do, I’m going to go out there & try to do it,” Garland stated. “I really mess with The Wall. I like The Wall a lot. It really distracts a lot of opponents. There’s a lot of new, up-and-coming energy in the Intuit Dome. I’m excited about that.”
“I’m a silly guy. I like to have fun. I’m cool, relaxed. A lot of people say I’m nonchalant – but I care about basketball, I care about winning games. This is what I’ve dreamt of doing my entire life,” he continued.
