Clippers – Lakers 112-104: Leaders Leonard and Zubac led the team to another victory
The Los Angeles Clippers continued their amazing run of form, defeating the Los Angeles Lakers 112-104 in Inglewood, California on Thursday night. Kawhi Leonard led the way with 24 points, while Ivica Zubac added 18 points and 19 rebounds, leading the Clippers to an impressive victory.
Important performance and statistics
James Harden had 18 points and 10 assists, Jordan Miller added 14 points and John Collins 13. With the win, the Clippers improved their record to 14-3 since Dec. 20, continuing a streak that began with a home win over the Lakers.
On the other hand, Luka Doncic had 32 points, 11 rebounds and 8 assists, while LeBron James added 23 points for the Lakers, who now have a 3-6 record since January 7. Rui Hachimura scored 12 points.
The evolution of the fight
The Clippers even led by 24 points in the second half, while the Lakers tried to come back with a 19-7 run in the third quarter, cutting it to 86-72. Another 19-7 run followed, bringing the Lakers within 93-91 with 5:56 left.
Harden answered with a 3-pointer by Doncic and started a 10-0 run for the Clippers, making it 103-91 with 3:26 left. The Lakers got closer to 105-102, but the Clippers “locked” the victory with Zubac’s nailer and Collins’ three-pointer.
Detailed percentages and performances
The Clippers shot 47.6%, while the Lakers shot 45.5%, with the Clippers outrebounding 55-43. In the first half, the Clippers trailed 64-47 thanks to a 13-5 run and Leonard scoring 14 points. Harden added 10 points and 8 assists while moving into 20th all-time in steals. The Lakers scored 17 points on 42.9% shooting in the first half.
Leonard’s return from a three-game absence due to a bruised knee proved decisive, while Zubac’s leadership and the Clippers’ overall team performance secured the home win and the series lead against the Lakers.
