Clippers vs Warriors: Garland's Return Boosts Playoff Hopes

0:00From the Daily News Now Network, this is NBA News Today, subscribe to keep up with every headline, every game. The Los Angeles Clippers snapped a 3-game skid with a win over the Pelicans on Sunday night. That victory pulled them a bit closer to the 8th-seated Golden State Warriors, with just 23 games left in the regular season. Now, they head into Monday's matchup with a real shot to shrink that gap to 1.5 games. The Warriors are banged up bad, missing stars like Steph Curry and others for the game. They will likely roll out a lineup featuring Brandon Podzyemsky, Moses Moody, Gay Santos, DeAnthony Melton, and Dremon Green to start, with limited, bench options. Even with some rest on their side, it is not their strongest group by any means. Clippers fans are buzzing about Darius Garland making his return after over 6 weeks sidelined by a toe injury. He will ease back in with limited minutes, but his playmaking and shooting should boost a back court that has struggled without a true point guard.

1:01The team is mostly healthy otherwise, setting up a big moment. Kauai Leonard shook off his ankle issue to play 29 minutes against New Orleans and looks ready for a full load. The only notable absence is John Collins, out with next soreness after tweaking his arm. This marks the first time Garland and Leonard will share the floor together. One day's clash gives the Clippers a golden opportunity on the second night of a back to back. Despite the travel and their older roster, the matchup tilts in their favor against the depleted warrior squad. A win here could shake up the play and race in a hurry. This DeAnth story comes to you, thanks to our sponsor. Headphones in a pillow. Once you try it, it just makes sense.