Home Basketball HIGHLIGHT: Clippers Maintain Winning Streak with James Harden’s 25,000th Point, Defeat Warriors 121-113

HIGHLIGHT: Clippers Maintain Winning Streak with James Harden’s 25,000th Point, Defeat Warriors 121-113

Basketball — 12/15/2023

James Harden achieved the 25,000 career points milestone, registering 28 points, 15 assists, and seven rebounds. Kawhi Leonard contributed 27 points and eight rebounds, guiding the Los Angeles Clippers to a 121-113 victory over the struggling Golden State Warriors on Thursday, extending their winning streak to six games.Image

Norman Powell played a crucial role, scoring 10 of his 21 points in the fourth quarter to secure the Clippers’ 11th win in 14 games. Despite missing Paul George due to injury, the Clippers maintained their perfect 5-0 home record in December, effectively resisting the late surge from the Warriors.Image

In a standout performance, Klay Thompson scored a season-high 30 points with eight 3-pointers for the Golden State Warriors. However, their road struggles persisted as they completed a winless 0-3 trip, extending their losing streak to 12 losses in 16 games.Image

Stephen Curry, shooting 5-of-17 from the field, contributed 17 points for the Warriors, who are now navigating another stretch without Draymond Green, suspended indefinitely for an altercation with Phoenix’s Jusuf Nurkic.Image

Warriors coach Steve Kerr expressed support for Green amid his suspension, acknowledging the four-time NBA champion’s recent behavioral issues and providing unspecified assistance. Despite the absence of George, the Clippers adjusted their starting lineup, successfully overcoming the challenge.

Both teams adapted their starting lineups due to key absences, with the Warriors promoting Jonathan Kuminga and Brandin Podziemski, and the Clippers adjusting to George’s absence with Amir Coffey.Image

Thompson showcased his prowess with a vintage performance, but the Warriors struggled in the fourth quarter, with Curry and Thompson combining for just one made shot in seven attempts.

Facing his former team, Chris Paul contributed 12 points for the Warriors, who continue to face road woes with seven consecutive away losses. Harden’s milestone marked a highlight as he became the 24th player in NBA history to surpass 25,000 career points.

George’s injury marked a rare setback for the Clippers, who have enjoyed good health this season, a departure from previous injury-plagued campaigns. Despite key player absences, the Clippers demonstrated depth and resilience, adapting successfully to various challenges.