Clippers' Darius Garland leaves game with ankle injury

Garland headed to the locker room after rolling his ankle in the first half against the Pacers

Mar. 28, 2026 at 12:20am

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Los Angeles Clippers guard Darius Garland suffered an ankle injury during Friday's game against the Indiana Pacers and had to leave the game. Garland seemed to roll his ankle and stayed in the game briefly, but then went to the locker room shortly before halftime. The team has not provided an official injury designation for Garland at this time.

Why it matters

Garland has been a key player for the Clippers since being traded from the Cleveland Cavaliers earlier this season, averaging 21.1 points and 6.8 assists per game. His injury could have a significant impact on the Clippers' playoff positioning, as they currently sit eighth in the Western Conference standings.

The details

Garland played 15 minutes in the first half, scoring 8 points and dishing out 4 assists, before heading to the locker room with the ankle injury. If Garland is unable to return, Kris Dunn is expected to see increased playing time at point guard for the Clippers.

  • Garland went to the locker room with about 90 seconds left in the first half.

The players

Darius Garland

A guard for the Los Angeles Clippers who was traded from the Cleveland Cavaliers earlier this season.

Kris Dunn

A guard for the Los Angeles Clippers who could see increased playing time if Garland is unable to return.

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What they’re saying

“Darius Garland has gone to the Clippers locker room. He stayed in for a minute after the play but is going back with about 90 seconds left until halftime.”

— Justin Russo

What’s next

The Clippers will provide an update on Garland's status before the conclusion of the game. If he is unable to return, his availability for future games will be a key storyline to monitor as the Clippers push for a playoff spot.

The takeaway

Garland's injury is a significant concern for the Clippers, as he has been a driving force behind their recent success. The team will need to find a way to overcome his potential absence if he is unable to return, as their playoff positioning hangs in the balance.