LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Clippers, once mired in a six-game losing streak, have turned their fortunes around in spectacular fashion. On Saturday night, they secured their seventh consecutive victory with a dominant 144-122 win over the New York Knicks. Kawhi Leonard led the charge with 36 points, while Paul George added 25, signaling the Clippers’ return to formidable form.
The Clippers’ resurgence coincides with their growing chemistry with James Harden, who joined the team in a trade from Philadelphia. Coach Tyronn Lue acknowledged the progress but emphasized the need for continuous improvement. Leonard highlighted the team’s developing rhythm and the integration of Harden, who has been adapting to his teammates’ styles and preferences.
Leonard and George’s scoring prowess was on full display, especially in the third quarter. Leonard’s personal 8-0 run, followed by consecutive three-pointers with George, extended the Clippers’ lead to 22 points. Leonard’s impressive stretch has seen him score 169 points in 177 minutes on a remarkable 65% shooting.
For the Knicks, Jalen Brunson, fresh off a career-high 50-point performance against Phoenix, scored 22 points. Julius Randle also contributed 22 points, while RJ Barrett and Donte DiVincenzo added 18 each. Despite these efforts, the Knicks struggled defensively, narrowly avoiding their most points conceded since 1990.
The game was a tale of two halves, with the Clippers using a 42-point second quarter to build a 77-66 lead by halftime. In the third quarter, Leonard and George combined for 30 of LA’s 37 points, propelling the Clippers to a commanding 114-98 lead entering the fourth.
Reflecting on their earlier season loss to the Knicks, the Clippers have shown significant improvement since Harden’s debut. Harden, who has found his groove with the team, contributed 10 points and 12 assists.
The game also saw Josh Hart of the Clippers ejected for arguing with the referee, while Russell Westbrook and Julius Randle also had interactions with the officials.
The Clippers’ impressive free-throw shooting was another highlight, attempting 30 in the first half, the most by any team in a half this season, with Leonard perfect from the line.
Josh Primo made his debut for the Clippers, scoring two points in the final minutes. Primo joined the team on a two-way contract after being waived by San Antonio amid controversial circumstances.
UP NEXT
The Knicks look to rebound as they face the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday night. Meanwhile, the Clippers aim to extend their winning streak when they travel to Indiana, also on Monday night.
