DALLAS – Kawhi Leonard’s dominant 30-point performance propelled the Los Angeles Clippers to a 120-111 win over the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night, marking their ninth consecutive victory. This streak represents the NBA’s longest active win streak and is the franchise’s longest since the 2015-16 season.
Norman Powell contributed significantly with 21 points off the bench, stepping up in the absence of Paul George, who was sidelined due to illness. James Harden also played a key role with 17 points and 11 assists. The Clippers have made a remarkable turnaround since their last visit to Dallas, improving to a 14-3 record following a six-game losing streak that coincided with Harden’s arrival.
Luka Doncic led the Mavericks with 28 points, ending his franchise record of 11 consecutive games with at least 30 points. Doncic also recorded his sixth triple-double of the season, adding 10 rebounds and 10 assists. The Mavericks played without All-Star guard Kyrie Irving, sidelined with a bruised right heel, marking their sixth game without him.
The Clippers led by as many as 22 points but had to stave off a late rally by the Mavericks. Leonard, who also had 10 rebounds, played a crucial role in the final quarter with a layup, a dunk, and an assist on a three-point play by Powell. His efforts were part of a 9-0 run that extended the lead to 120-110 with less than a minute remaining.
Amir Coffey, starting in place of George, added 12 points. George’s absence, along with injuries to rookie center Dereck Lively II and guard Josh Green, added to the Mavericks’ challenges.
Tim Hardaway Jr. scored 21 points for Dallas, and Derrick Jones Jr. added 19 points. The Mavericks’ comeback attempt included a significant moment just before halftime when Hardaway hit a 29-foot 3-pointer, cutting the Clippers’ lead to 11 points.
Dallas coach Jason Kidd emphasized the need for the team to make shots, especially when short-handed. The Mavericks’ rally in the second quarter showcased their resilience but wasn’t enough to overcome the Clippers’ lead.
UP NEXT
The Clippers face the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday, completing a back-to-back set and wrapping up a three-game trip. The Mavericks will look to rebound against the Houston Rockets on Friday, following Houston’s recent home loss to Atlanta. This game underscored the Clippers’ resurgence as a formidable force in the league, led by Leonard’s standout performance and the team’s depth in the face of key absences.
