Darius Garland says he is finally back to full health after dealing with a troublesome toe injury for much of the past two seasons.
The Clippers guard told HoopsHype that the injury became particularly difficult after a strong 2024-25 campaign and affected nearly every part of his game.
“It was very frustrating, just because the season I had before (2024/25), it was really, really good. So I think we could have had a chance of making a run if I didn’t get hurt. So that was pretty frustrating. But it’s pretty tough just out there playing with nine toes for like half a year,” Garland said.
His condition improved during the second half of last season, and Garland now says a healthy offseason has allowed him to return to 100 percent.
“But now, having a full summer, having a full offseason back to 100 percent. It was a mental fog most of the time. Because we’re using our toes 24/7. So just out there trying to run on it and play defense, slide, and everything like that. It was pretty tough. Just had to work through it. I get paid to do this stuff. I just wanted to put on my hard hat and go out there and work and do the best I could.”
Garland also discussed his move to Los Angeles. The Clippers acquired him before last season’s trade deadline in the deal that sent James Harden to Cleveland.
“Once I got to L.A., I was pretty happy. Got to be in a new city, like a real new revamp. So it was cool. Easy transition, though,” Garland said. “Super excited to be there. I was pretty happy. I was coming to a new opportunity just to take on a new challenge. So I was excited about that.”
Darius Garland Says He’s Fully Recovered From Toe Injury https://t.co/RmCI4k1rDD
— RealGM (@RealGM) August 21, 2026
