In a dominant performance, the Los Angeles Clippers secured their seventh consecutive victory with a resounding 144-122 win over the New York Knicks on Saturday night. Kawhi Leonard led the charge with an impressive 36 points, while Paul George contributed 25 points in his return to the lineup after missing a game due to a sore hip.

The Clippers took control of the game with a remarkable 42-point second quarter, establishing a 77-66 lead by halftime. Kawhi Leonard’s 8-0 personal run, including a pivotal 3-pointer, early in the third quarter, further extended their advantage. Leonard and George then showcased their scoring prowess by combining for three consecutive 3-pointers, building a commanding 22-point lead.

Jalen Brunson, coming off a career-high 50-point performance against the Phoenix Suns, managed 22 points for the Knicks. Julius Randle also contributed 22 points, while RJ Barrett and Donte DiVincenzo added 18 points each, with DiVincenzo making five 3-pointers.

The third quarter proved crucial as Leonard and George dominated, collectively scoring 30 of the Clippers’ 37 points and pushing the lead to 114-98 heading into the fourth quarter.

The Clippers’ adjustments since their earlier loss to the Knicks on November 6, coupled with James Harden’s playmaking skills, were evident during their winning streak. Harden contributed 10 points and 12 assists in the game.

The intensity of the matchup was evident with ejections and technical fouls, including Josh Hart being ejected for comments to the referee and Russell Westbrook waving goodbye. The Clippers closed the first half strongly, going on a 21-8 run and attempting the most free throws (30) in a first half by any team this season, making 26 of them, with Leonard converting all six of his attempts.