James Harden led the Los Angeles Clippers to a 127-107 victory over the Toronto Raptors during Friday’s NBA action, marking their fourth win in a row. Harden showcased his exceptional skills by securing his 75th career triple-double with 22 points, 13 assists, and 10 rebounds.
This feat was particularly notable as it was his first triple-double since joining the Clippers in a trade from Philadelphia on November 1.
Paul George contributed significantly to the win with 21 points. Clippers coach Tyronn Lue praised Harden for his impact, emphasizing how he alleviated pressure on teammates Paul George and Kawhi Leonard.
“James has been great,” Lue said. “He keeps everybody happy. It takes a lot of grind off of PG and Kawhi, acquiring James. It’s huge for us.”
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Harden’s recent form has been impressive, with at least 20 points and 10 assists in his last three games, placing him eighth in NBA history for triple-doubles. Russell Westbrook also played a key role in the victory, scoring 20 points, while Leonard added 16 against his former team, the Raptors.
“We still want to get better,” Leonard said. “We’re not where we want to be.”
Leonard, who has a perfect 8-0 record against Toronto since his departure after their 2019 NBA Championship, received a warm reception from the fans. He expressed gratitude for their appreciation of his contribution to their championship year.
“Everybody knows what I did here and how special that year was,” Leonard said. “They’re very thankful for it. Every time I come, I get good praise.”
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Despite not playing in the fourth quarter, Leonard’s presence was felt with seven rebounds and three assists. Lue explained the decision to rest him was in preparation for the upcoming game against the Boston Celtics.
“He’s good,” Lue said of Leonard. “We’ve got a back-to-back (Saturday) so the more I can lessen him, the better it is for us.”
The Clippers, now with a balanced 10-10 road record, were also boosted by former Raptors guard Norman Powell’s 17 points. Mason Plumlee’s double-double (12 points, 12 rebounds) further helped in their win.
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Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic acknowledged the Clippers’ size and aggression, particularly in scoring 70 points in the paint, a season-high for the team.
“They are big, and they are forceful,” Rajakovic said of the Clippers. ”They were able to attack the paint and get there.”
The Raptors, struggling with their fourth consecutive loss, were led by Scottie Barnes with 23 points and RJ Barrett with 22 points. Injuries to key players like Jakob Poeltl and Jontay Porter compounded Toronto’s challenges.
