Kawhi Leonard achieved his second career triple-double, while James Harden added 23 points and 10 assists, propelling the Los Angeles Clippers to a 127-116 victory over the Lakers during Tuesday’s NBA action. This win marks their third consecutive and 11th in the last 13 games.
Leonard’s contribution was significant, with 25 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists, crucially providing three assists in the fourth quarter as the Clippers maintained a slim lead. The team overall tallied 33 assists. Clippers coach Tyronn Lue praised Leonard, noting the Lakers’ intense focus on him.
“They were coming with fire trying to get it out of his hands all night,” Lue said of Leonard.
The Lakers, without LeBron James due to left ankle pain, were led by D’Angelo Russell with 27 points and 10 assists. Anthony Davis also made a notable contribution with 26 points and 12 rebounds.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Kawhi Leonard, LA Clippers, LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Leonard acknowledged the difference James’ absence made but also recognized the efforts of other Lakers who stepped up in his stead.
“Everybody contributed to the win,” Leonard said. “That’s what we got to do, knock down shots when they’re open and tonight we did.”
The Clippers were without Ivica Zubac, sidelined for at least a month due to a calf strain. Despite this, the Clippers’ win pushed the Lakers below a .500 record at 22-23, marking their fourth consecutive road loss.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Kawhi Leonard, LA Clippers, LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Lakers coach Darvin Ham remained optimistic, noting the positive aspects of their play during the game.
“Like I told them just now, a lot of good things we did during this game,” Lakers coach Darvin Ham said.
The Clippers managed to keep their lead in the fourth quarter thanks to pivotal plays by Leonard and Norman Powell, who finished with 17 points. Paul George, struggling with a left groin issue, contributed 17 points but also had four turnovers.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Kawhi Leonard, LA Clippers, LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
In the first half, the Clippers shot an impressive 66% from the field, establishing a 77-64 lead by halftime. The Lakers showed resilience in the third quarter, with Russell and Austin Reaves hitting key 3-pointers, but they couldn’t close the gap.
Leonard commented on the Lakers’ strengths and the Clippers’ need to improve in certain areas. Russell Westbrook ended the game with 16 points for the Lakers.
“They’re a good transition team, and we allowed them to play to their strengths,” Leonard said. “We just got to be better at that.”
Looking ahead, the Lakers will host the Chicago Bulls on Thursday, while the Clippers are set to face the Toronto Raptors on Friday, beginning their seven-game road trip.
