NBA Notes: Clippers, Bradley Beal, Cavs, Darius Garland, Bulls

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Clippers

The Clippers may be bracing for bad news on Bradley Beal. Prior to Monday’s game against Atlanta, coach Tyronn Lue told reporters he is concerned Beal could miss extended time as doctors continue to evaluate a left hip issue.

The injury was initially labeled “hip soreness,” but Beal indicated last week in Phoenix that he has been dealing with something dating back to his time with the Suns, per Kellan Olson of ArizonaSports.com.

Beal, 32, has battled injuries for much of the past six seasons, rarely topping 60 appearances.

Lue also inserted John Collins into the starting lineup for the first time on Monday. He said he plans to stay with Collins in that role “for a while,” citing the need for more rebounding.

Collins will be an unrestricted free agent next summer if he does not sign a veteran extension.

Cavaliers

Cleveland continues to wait for clarity on Darius Garland after the All-Star point guard limped off multiple times in Monday’s overtime loss in Miami.

Garland committed an intentional foul in the second half to sub himself out, then walked directly to the locker room and did not return.

There was no immediate update postgame.

Garland had just returned to action last week after offseason surgery on his left big toe, an injury that cost him significant postseason time in the spring. He averaged 20.6 points, 6.7 assists and shot 40 percent from three last season.

If Garland misses more time, Sam Merrill, Lonzo Ball, Jaylon Tyson and Craig Porter Jr. are all candidates for expanded minutes.

Bulls

Josh Giddey missed Monday’s loss to the Spurs with a right ankle sprain, but coach Billy Donovan said the team does not believe it is a long-term issue, per Jamal Collier of ESPN.

Donovan noted there was almost no swelling following Saturday’s game and that Giddey was mainly dealing with discomfort during Monday morning’s shootaround.

Giddey is considered day-to-day.