James Harden delivered a sensational performance, scoring 35 points, with 21 coming in the fourth quarter, and contributing nine assists as the Clippers dominated the Indiana Pacers 151-127 on Monday night. This victory extended the Clippers’ winning streak to eight games, making it the league’s longest active streak.
Kawhi Leonard added 28 points for Los Angeles, while Paul George, facing his former team, contributed 27 points. Taking advantage of the league’s second-worst defense, the Clippers matched their season-high point total for a half by scoring 77 points in the first half, resulting in their highest-scoring game of the season.
Bennedict Mathurin led the scoring for Indiana with a season-high 34 points, and Isaiah Jackson, starting in place of the injured Myles Turner, added 15 points. All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton had a challenging night, scoring eight points with 11 assists and four turnovers after missing the previous game due to a bruised knee.
Leonard and George relished tormenting the Pacers and their former fans, capitalizing on the Pacers’ fatigued defense following a 12-day road trip across three time zones.
Despite a competitive first quarter and a brief lead for Indiana in the second quarter, the Clippers took control with a 21-6 run, leading 67-57 at halftime. They continued to dominate in the third quarter, leaving the Pacers unable to mount a comeback, with James Harden ensuring the Clippers’ victory.
Before the game, the Pacers paid tribute to the late George McGinnis, a two-time ABA champion, with a highlight reel and a moment of silence.