Clippers defeat Blazers 132-127 for fourth consecutive victory

The Clippers, led by Paul George and James Harden, had a strong performance against the Blazers. George recorded 20 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists, while Harden contributed 20 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists. Ivica Zubac also played well, scoring 18 points.

This victory improved the Clippers' record to 9-3 since their recent six-game losing streak. Leonard, on the other hand, has been impressive in his last two games, accumulating a total of 75 points.

Clippers coach Tyronn Lue emphasized the importance of player health and chemistry, especially with the contributions of George and Harden. On the other side, Portland was without Deandre Ayton and Malcolm Brogdon due to knee soreness.

Despite their absence, Anfernee Simons had a standout performance with a career-high 38 points, while Shaedon Sharpe added 27 points for the Blazers. Unfortunately, Portland struggled on the road and now holds an 0-8 record against Western Conference teams.

Coach Chauncey Billups praised the team's effort and perseverance. The game was intense, with both teams trading one-point leads in the fourth quarter.

Ultimately, the Clippers secured the win with George's free throws. Leonard expressed his satisfaction with the team's rhythm and his own shot-making ability. The high-scoring third quarter ended with the Clippers leading 105-99 after a 12-5 run.

The Blazers knocked down 10 3-pointers in the period, with five consecutive shots to start, but never held a lead greater than five points. Russell Westbrook scored seven straight points during the Clippers' run, which allowed them to regain control.

In the second quarter, Portland erased a double-digit deficit and took the lead for the first time thanks to a basket by former Clipper Moses Brown, capping off an 8-0 run. The Clippers regained the lead with George's basket, making it 66-65 going into halftime.

During the first quarter, the Clippers shot an impressive 79%, building a 14-point lead with Zubac leading the way with 14 points.

In the third quarter, Harden threw down a one-handed dunk, marking his first dunk since joining the Clippers 1 1/2 months ago.

“Let's make this clear. I can still dunk,” said the 34-year-old 10-time All-Star. “I have teammates who can do it better.”

Billups stated, “When you’re trying to build something, there will be some challenges along the way. It's not easy because I strive to win in everything I do.”

UP NEXT

Trail Blazers: The Utah Jazz will visit the Blazers on Thursday to kick off a five-game homestand.

Clippers: The Sacramento Kings will be hosted by the Clippers on Tuesday to complete a back-to-back.