Clippers: Hachimura, Garland shine in opener as Strus exits hurt

The Los Angeles Clippers began their reshaped era on a positive note Sunday night, edging the Golden State Warriors 104-101 in a preseason opener in Hawaii. The win showcased the team’s revamped core, with Rui Hachimura and Darius Garland immediately taking on starring roles.

Hachimura and Garland headline revamped Clippers

Garland, acquired from the Cleveland Cavaliers at February’s trade deadline, was sharp in limited minutes. He scored 15 points in 15 minutes and quickly developed on-court chemistry with Hachimura, including a pair of early alley-oops that energized the Clippers’ offence.

Hachimura, who joined the Clippers in free agency after leaving the cross-town Lakers, led all scorers with 21 points and added five rebounds in just 15 minutes. He shot an efficient 8-for-11 from the field, taking advantage of sets tailored to his strengths. The forward said he has been in constant dialogue with head coach Tyronn Lue and the staff about staying aggressive and fine-tuning which actions put him in the best spots to score.

Rookie forward Keaton Wagler, the fifth pick in this year’s draft, delivered a mixed but ultimately decisive debut. Coming off the bench, he logged 30 minutes and contributed 15 points, six rebounds and three assists. He struggled with his shot, going 3-for-15 overall and 1-for-11 from three-point range, but he knocked down the game-winning jumper with 19 seconds remaining to seal the victory.

Injury concerns for Strus and Sanders, Beal’s recovery progresses

The encouraging performance was tempered by injury news in the backcourt. Second-year guard Kobe Sanders was held out after sustaining a hip impingement during training camp. He also missed Saturday’s practice, though he was able to do some individual work, and there is currently no set timetable for his return.

Starting wing Max Strus left Sunday’s game early with a non-contact injury to his right ankle. He limped off the floor and was ruled out for the rest of the night. Lue said the ankle will be evaluated further once the team returns to Los Angeles and acknowledged that non-contact injuries are always worrisome.

Bradley Beal didn’t suit up in Hawaii, but he addressed reporters about his comeback from hip surgery after a fracture limited him to six games last season. Beal admitted he initially feared his career might be over and said he was “100% scared” the first time he attempted a layup following the procedure. He now reports being able to run and jump without pain and is aiming for a productive year after signing a new two-year contract this summer, noting that the ordeal has deepened his appreciation for both life and basketball.