James Harden and the Los Angeles Clippers capped off a remarkable December with a 117-106 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies during Friday’s NBA action, a stark contrast to their challenging November.
The Clippers, who struggled to integrate Harden following his November 1st trade from Philadelphia, found their rhythm in December. Paul George led the scoring with 23 points, while Harden contributed 16 points and 13 assists. The Clippers’ 11-2 record in December was the best in the Western Conference for the month.
Clippers coach Tyronn Lue credited the team’s turnaround to the players and coaching staff’s resilience, particularly after a six-game losing streak in November. Adjustments in rotations and playstyles have been key to their success.
“I give credit to our coaching staff and players for just working through all that adversity when we lost six games in a row (in November) and just trying to figure it out,” Lue said. “Once we figured out our rotations and how we wanted how to play, we’ve had to win games different ways, ugly sometimes. We’re doing some good things and I like our attitude right now.”
Despite being below .500 at the start of December, the Clippers rallied with a nine-game winning streak, their longest since the 2015-16 season. This surge came despite the absence of Kawhi Leonard, who missed his fourth consecutive game due to a left hip contusion. The team has managed a 2-2 record in his absence.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers, Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies Updates
Harden stepped up in Leonard’s absence, averaging 20.5 points during this period, an increase from his season average. Harden emphasized the team’s ongoing adjustments and the fun of winning together.
“We didn’t expect to be a hit right away. And it still isn’t nowhere near we need to be,” Harden said. “Tonight and over the last couple games, when someone like Kawhi is out you need me to score and play make a little bit more. We are learning each other more game by game. It’s obviously fun when you are winning.”
Ivica Zubac also played a crucial role, recording a season-high 20 rebounds and 15 points for his fifth double-double in the last seven games. The Clippers scored balanced, with seven players reaching double figures. They now lead the Pacific Division at 19-12, half a game ahead of Sacramento, and sit fourth in the Western Conference.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers, Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies Updates
The Grizzlies were led by Jaren Jackson Jr. and Marcus Smart, each scoring 22 points. Ja Morant added 19 points and 10 assists, averaging 26.8 points in five games since returning from a 25-game suspension. Morant noted his comfort in his role and the impact of his return on the team’s performance.
“Yeah, I mean, it’s a different ballgame,” Morant said. “A little more comfort in my job as I go out there and make it easier for them. Find them easier looks, that’s just my role on this team.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers, Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies Updates
The Clippers maintained control for most of the game, with a dunk by Daniel Theis early in the fourth quarter extending their lead. However, the Grizzlies mounted a comeback, cutting the deficit to eight points before the Clippers secured their win.
Looking ahead, the Grizzlies will host the Sacramento Kings on Sunday, while the Clippers are set to play the Miami Heat on Monday.
