Kawhi Leonard‘s late-game resilience and a decisive block propelled the Los Angeles Clippers to a narrow 108-107 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers during Wednesday’s NBA action in a game filled with drama and contention. The win, however, was shrouded in controversy due to a contested no-call on the game’s final play.
“Well I think, listen, I think he took it in there pretty hard, right?” Sixers head coach Nick Nurse reflected on the contentious play. “I looked it on our computer screen a couple times. I thought there was certainly contact. Certainly as much as the last two or three that got called and-1’s at the other end. And that’s all. I just thought it was enough contact to call. But that’s the way it goes sometimes.”
The officiating crew later admitted a mistake in their on-court decision.
“On the last play on the floor, in real-time, the crew interpreted that play as the defender jumping vertically,” referee Kevin Scott explained. “However, in post-game video review we did observe some slight drift to his left by the defender George, and a foul should have been ruled.”
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Despite a challenging start, Leonard found his rhythm in the second half, finishing with 17 points and 10 rebounds. His crucial plays in the closing moments underlined the Clippers’ resolve to clinch the game.
“We had to stay focused if we were going to stay in the game,” Leonard said, highlighting the importance of concentration and effort to overcome early struggles.
Paul George and James Harden also played pivotal roles for the Clippers, with George leading the scoring with 22 points and Harden adding 16 points and 14 assists against his former team. Harden’s return to Wells Fargo Center was met with a cold reception, but he remained unfazed by the boos from the crowd.
“I expected it,” Harden commented on the crowd’s reaction. “I really don’t know what it’s about, but I expected it. So it is what it is. I don’t even know why they were booing. You can ask them. I don’t know why they were booing.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers, Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Harden’s response was unequivocal when asked about reconciling with Philadelphia’s president of basketball operations, Daryl Morey. “No,” he stated firmly. “Hell no.”
As both teams look ahead, the Clippers are set to continue their road trip in Orlando, while the 76ers will face Cleveland. Though marred by officiating controversy, the game’s conclusion showcased the competitive spirit and skill of the players involved, making it a memorable matchup in the NBA season.
