Paul George led the Los Angeles Clippers to a 128-117 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder during Tuesday’s NBA action, with a season-best 38 points, 18 of which were scored in a decisive fourth quarter. This win marked the Clippers’ ninth victory in their last 11 matchups.
George’s performance was complemented by Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, who each contributed 16 points. The Clippers received further good news when NBA Commissioner Adam Silver announced the 2026 All-Star Game would be hosted at their new arena in Inglewood, where the team is set to play from next season.
Despite a strong effort from the Thunder, with Jalen Williams scoring 25 points and Lu Dort and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander adding 19 points each, they couldn’t sustain their momentum. This loss was their second consecutive defeat, following a successful run where they won nine out of 12 games. Thunder coach Mark Daigneault acknowledged the close competition, noting the learning opportunity for the team.
“We gave ourselves every chance to win that game and they outplayed us in the final 3 1/2 minutes,” Daigneault said. “That’s how you learn about ourselves. It’s exciting to know that we’re drawing teams’ best punches out of them.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers, Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
The Thunder initially rallied in the third quarter, overcoming a 13-point deficit to lead 115-114, thanks to a 3-pointer by Williams. However, George’s outstanding performance in the final quarter, including scoring 11 of the Clippers’ last 14 points, secured the win for Los Angeles.
“Once I see the ball going in, I feel confident and ultra-aggressive,” George said. “Throughout my career, it takes a couple (shots) to kind of ease into the game.”
His contribution wasn’t just in scoring; George also made significant defensive plays, demonstrating his comprehensive impact on the game.
“Him taking over that fourth and just putting his will on the game gets us over that hump,” Leonard said. “He made shots and he made defensive plays as well.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers, Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
The Clippers had to respond to a challenge in the third quarter when the Thunder narrowed the gap to 79-77. However, a combined effort by Daniel Theis and Norman Powell, who hit back-to-back 3-pointers, helped the Clippers regain control and enter the fourth quarter with a 10-point lead. Clippers coach Tyronn Lue praised his team’s resilience and ability to maintain the advantage.
“We responded well,” Lue said. “To hold onto the lead and make our own run says a lot about our team.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers, Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
Clippers center Ivica Zubac missed the game due to a right calf strain and is set for re-evaluation in a month. Mason Plumlee replaced him, scoring 14 points in his first start of the season.
Looking ahead, the Thunder will face the Utah Jazz on Thursday, while the Clippers are set to host the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday.
