CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Los Angeles Clippers narrowly defeated the Charlotte Hornets with a final score of 112-104 on Friday evening, thanks to standout performances from several players. Norman Powell led the Clippers in scoring with 27 points, while Kawhi Leonard contributed 21 points and nine rebounds. All-Star James Harden also made his mark with 14 points and 10 assists, alongside Ivica Zubac, who recorded a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds.
During the game, the Clippers managed to establish a 10-point advantage in the third quarter. However, they struggled to maintain that lead against the determined Hornets, holding them off until the final minutes. A critical three-pointer from Harden put the Clippers up 102-95 with just over six minutes remaining. Leonard’s dunk shortly before the end solidified their largest lead of the night at 110-99.
Charlotte’s Miles Bridges emerged as a significant force with 27 points and nine rebounds, while Vasa Micic added 20 points to the Hornets’ efforts. Unfortunately, Charlotte has found itself struggling during this homestand, with a record of 1-4 so far, and they will continue their road of challenges against the Denver Nuggets on Saturday.
Takeaways from the game indicate the Clippers’ dominance over the Hornets, as they have now secured 13 consecutive victories against this team, with their last loss dating back to November 18, 2017, in Charlotte. Over the years, the Clippers have taken a commanding lead in the all-time series with a record of 42-25 against the Hornets.
Interestingly, the matchup was initially scheduled to be the final meeting between the teams this season; however, the wildfires in California resulted in the postponement of their January 11 game. That contest is now slated for March 16.
A pivotal moment in the game occurred when the Hornets closed the gap to 97-95. Kevin Porter Jr. scored a critical slam dunk after missing a three-pointer, triggering a 7-0 run that featured a driving layup by Powell and a three-pointer from Harden, extending their lead to 104-95. The Hornets were unable to draw closer than five points in the remaining minutes.
Statistically, the Clippers excelled from beyond the arc, hitting 11 of their 28 three-point attempts, while the Hornets struggled, connecting on only 7 of 30 attempts from deep.
Looking ahead, the Clippers will be in Toronto for their next game on Sunday, while the Hornets will host the Denver Nuggets the following night.
This recap corrects an earlier report which incorrectly stated Miles Bridges had 25 points; he in fact had 27 points in the game.
