NEW ORLEANS — In a tightly contested matchup, Norman Powell delivered an impressive performance with 35 points, while James Harden secured the win for the Los Angeles Clippers by sinking pivotal free throws with just 17.9 seconds left on the clock. The Clippers managed to edge out the New Orleans Pelicans 116-113 on Monday night.
The Pelicans, who have struggled significantly this season with 10 consecutive losses and only one win in their last 20 games, fought hard to equalize the score. However, in a crucial moment, Harden strategically fouled rookie center Yves Missi. Although Missi had a notable game with 12 points, nine rebounds, and five blocks, his missed free throw that could have leveled the game at 114 with just 4.3 seconds remaining proved costly. The referees mistakenly called a missed shot on his foul shot, leading to a jump ball at center court after a video review.
Ivica Zubac successfully tipped the ball back to Harden, who then went on to hit two more free throws, sealing his 27 points for the game. Meanwhile, CJ McCollum, Nueva Orleans’ standout player, attempted a half-court shot but only managed to hit the front rim as time expired. Zubac also had an impressive night, contributing 20 points and grabbing 16 rebounds. With this victory, the Clippers extended their winning streak to three games and have now won five out of their last six matchups.
The Pelicans initially surged ahead, establishing a lead of up to 14 points, particularly when Trey Murphy nailed a 3-pointer to push the score to 59-45 late in the second quarter. Yet, the Clippers rallied before halftime, reducing the gap with an 11-3 run. Throughout much of the game, Los Angeles trailed and could only briefly lead by a maximum of four points.
CJ McCollum shone for New Orleans, making eight 3-pointers and finishing with 33 points. Murphy and Herb Jones each contributed 18 points, while Dejounte Murray added 13 points along with 10 rebounds and six steals.
Observations from the game indicate that the Clippers capitalized on their rebounding advantage of 40-35, amassed 56-44 points in the paint, and shot 21-11 from the foul line, allowing them to overcome one of New Orleans’ stronger performances in recent weeks. Despite New Orleans hitting a season-high 18 3-pointers in a game, it ultimately wasn’t enough to secure them a win.
A significant statistic from the game reveals that the Clippers turned 14 offensive rebounds into 20 points from second chances.
Looking ahead, the Clippers are set to take on the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday night, while the Pelicans will face the Miami Heat on Wednesday.
