Contributions from James Harden and Paul George, with each scoring 20 points, along with 18 points from Ivica Zubac, played a crucial role in the Clippers’ success. The team improved to a solid 9-3 record since November 17 and holds a 9-8 record since acquiring Harden in a trade from the Philadelphia 76ers.
Anfernee Simons led the short-handed Trail Blazers with an impressive season-high of 38 points. However, despite Simons’ stellar performance, the Trail Blazers suffered their fourth consecutive loss, maintaining a challenging record of 3-13 since November 5. Shaedon Sharpe contributed 27 points, and rookie Scoot Henderson added 19 for the Trail Blazers. Moses Brown seized a rare opportunity off the bench, securing 12 rebounds for Portland.
The absence of key players like Jerami Grant (concussion protocol), Deandre Ayton (knee), and Malcolm Brogdon (knee) challenged the Trail Blazers throughout the game.
Russell Westbrook’s personal 7-0 run late in the third quarter provided the Clippers with a 100-94 lead. Although the Trail Blazers momentarily took the lead in the fourth quarter, the Clippers regained control. Terance Mann’s two free throws put the Clippers ahead 124-123 with 1:13 remaining. A crucial block from Zubac and a driving layup from George secured a 126-123 lead for Los Angeles.
Kawhi Leonard sealed the victory with two free throws in the final seconds, and the Clippers made six free throws in the closing moments to secure the win. The Clippers had a strong start to the game, shooting an impressive 76 percent from the field and establishing a 43-32 lead after the first quarter. Despite a resilient comeback from Portland, the Clippers maintained a narrow 66-65 lead at halftime after trailing by as many as 14 points in the first half.