INGLEWOOD, Calif. – The Los Angeles Clippers triumphed over the Cleveland Cavaliers, the leading team in the Eastern Conference, clinching a 132-119 victory at home on Tuesday night. Kawhi Leonard delivered a standout performance, scoring 33 points, helping the Clippers achieve their fourth consecutive win.
Ivica Zubac made a substantial impact with 28 points and a remarkable 20 rebounds, while James Harden contributed 22 points along with nine assists. The Cavaliers, whose impressive 16-game winning run came to an end on Sunday against Orlando, saw their superior road performance record slip to 26-7. Max Strus led the Cavaliers with a season-high 24 points after the team gave away a 12-point first-quarter advantage that culminated in them scoring 45 points within that period.
Donovan Mitchell chipped in with 18 points and 11 assists, while Evan Mobley returned from a one-game break due to a foot injury, adding 17 points to the cause.
Analysis:
Cavaliers: Despite facing consecutive losses for the first time since late January, the Cavaliers maintain a strong lead in the Eastern standings as the regular season nears its end.
Clippers: Even without their injured coach Tyronn Lue for the fourth game in a row, the Clippers overcame an early 12-point deficit to secure a significant win—proving a tenacious approach crucial in securing a spot in the playoffs.
Turning Point:
The game shifted in favor of the Clippers with a decisive 20-3 run bridging the end of the third and the beginning of the fourth quarters. This surge turned a tight exchange into a 12-point lead in the final quarter. Bogdan Bogdanovic played a critical role, scoring seven points in this spurt and ending with 20 points off the bench.
Key Statistic:
The Clippers dominated the rebounding battle 49-29 and the Cavaliers struggled at the free-throw line, converting only 17 of their 26 attempts.
Looking Ahead:
The Cavaliers will continue their road trip by visiting Sacramento on Wednesday, while the Clippers will host the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday.
