The Los Angeles Clippers opened their 2026-27 NBA season with a commanding 121-96 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday night. Led by a 30-point performance from Darius Garland, the Clippers maintained control throughout the game at the Intuit Dome, marking their first season opener without Kawhi Leonard in seven years.
A roster in transition
The Clippers' victory comes amidst a period of significant organizational change. Following a league investigation into salary cap-circumvention rules, the team sent Leonard to the Toronto Raptors last month. This shift, along with previous trades involving James Harden and Chris Paul, has resulted in the largest decrease in average roster age in the NBA, according to the Elias Sports Bureau.
Key contributors in the win included:
- Darius Garland: 30 points
- Brook Lopez: 17 points and 11 rebounds
- Keaton Wagler: 15 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists
- Rui Hachimura: 10 points in his Clippers debut
What is the status of the Clippers' leadership?
Team ownership is also facing significant upheaval. Owner Steve Ballmer was absent from his usual sideline seat as he serves a one-year ban prohibiting him from participating in any team or league operations. The NBA issued the suspension after finding Ballmer had knowingly sought to help Leonard obtain off-court income opportunities. As part of the penalty, the franchise was fined $30 million and stripped of five consecutive draft picks from 2029 through 2033.
Despite these off-court challenges, the Clippers' bench depth proved decisive, outscoring the Kings' reserves 53-34. However, the team remains shorthanded due to several injuries, including Bradley Beal, Brandon Ingram, and Max Strus.
FAQ
Why was Kawhi Leonard not playing for the Clippers?
Leonard was sent to the Toronto Raptors following an NBA finding that the Clippers violated salary cap-circumvention rules.
How did the Kings perform in the game?
Zach LaVine led Sacramento with 28 points, while Domantas Sabonis recorded 14 points and 18 rebounds.
