Kris Dunn starting will only make the game harder for Darius Garland

Writer Iliyan Lakhani argues that starting Kris Dunn on opening night will place too much offensive pressure on Darius Garland. Although head coach Tyronn Lue reportedly selected Dunn for his strong perimeter defense and rebounding, Lakhani asserts that Dunn's limited scoring ability will allow opposing defenses to heavily focus on containing Garland in the backcourt.

The article notes that with Brandon Ingram sidelined due to a partially torn Achilles, the Clippers lack a reliable secondary scoring option. Lakhani highlights that Dunn averaged just 7.3 points per game in the 2025-26 season, suggesting rookie Keaton Wagler would have offered superior self-creation to ease Garland's offensive burden.