The Los Angeles Clippers edged out the Los Angeles Lakers 112-104 on Thursday night, fueled by Kawhi Leonard’s 24 points and a collective effort that withstood a fierce fourth-quarter rally from their crosstown rivals.
From the outset, the Clippers dominated, shooting 59% from the field in the first half to establish a 64-47 lead. Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and Ivica Zubac were pivotal in this early surge, while the Lakers, despite Luka Doncic’s 17 first-half points, managed only 42% shooting, hampered by defensive lapses.
In the third quarter, the Clippers expanded their advantage to a game-high 26 points after a 15-0 run orchestrated by Leonard, Harden, and Zubac. However, the Lakers responded with a 19-7 spurt, highlighted by LeBron James’ three-pointer and a dunk off a turnover, cutting the deficit to 86-72 heading into the final period.
The fourth quarter saw a dramatic Lakers comeback, ignited by Luka Doncic’s spectacular three-pointer off one leg, part of a 19-7 run that brought them within two points. James Harden quickly answered with a three of his own, and the Clippers maintained their composure, with Ivica Zubac’s reverse dunk and John Collins’ three-pointer extending the lead to eight points. Harden’s clutch free throws ultimately sealed the victory.
Doncic finished with an impressive 32 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists for the Lakers, while LeBron James added 23 points. On the Clippers’ side, Harden contributed 18 points and 10 assists, and Zubac posted a double-double with 18 points and 19 rebounds, with seven players scoring in double figures to underscore their depth.
This win marks the Clippers’ seventh victory in eight games, improving their record to 20-24 as they climb in the Western Conference standings. The Lakers, now 26-17, have lost five of their last eleven games and were without Austin Reaves due to a calf strain, though coach JJ Redick anticipates his return soon.
Looking ahead, the Lakers will visit the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday to begin a six-game road trip, while the Clippers host the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday, as both teams prepare for critical matchups in the ongoing NBA season.
