The Clippers may have moved on from James Harden at the trade deadline, but don’t mistake that for a team hitting the brakes. On Wednesday night, they showed exactly why they’re still a threat out West - grit, depth, and a whole lot of Kawhi Leonard.
Facing the Houston Rockets for the second night in a row, the Clippers found themselves in an early 15-point hole. But instead of folding, they dug in.
The result? A gutsy 105-102 win that not only avenged the previous night’s loss but also served as a statement: this team isn’t backing down.
Kawhi Leonard was, once again, the engine and the closer. He poured in 27 points, pulled down 12 boards, dished out four assists, and swiped four steals in 33 minutes.
But it was his fourth-quarter takeover that truly defined the night - 19 points in the final frame, capped by a clutch and-one that sealed the game. This was vintage Kawhi: poised, relentless, and cold-blooded when it mattered most.
And he wasn’t alone. Kris Dunn stepped up with a strong 16-point, six-assist performance, bringing solid playmaking and defensive energy.
Bennedict Mathurin matched Dunn’s scoring output with 16 of his own, while also contributing across the board with three rebounds, three assists, and three steals - a balanced effort that showed his growing versatility. Brook Lopez added 15 points, continuing to be a steady interior presence, while John Collins and Derrick Jones Jr. each chipped in 12.
Jones Jr. also made his mark on the defensive end with two blocks and a steal, adding to the team’s second-half surge.
For Houston, the loss stung - especially after holding the lead for much of the game - but it wasn’t without bright spots. Kevin Durant led the way with 21 points, eight rebounds, and six assists, though his eight turnovers were a tough pill to swallow in a tight game.
Jabari Smith Jr. continued his strong play with a 16-point, 12-rebound double-double, while Alperen Sengun nearly matched him with 16 points, nine boards, and six assists of his own. Reed Sheppard gave the Rockets a lift off the bench with 17 points, and both Tari Eason (13 points) and Amen Thompson (12 points) added meaningful contributions.
In the end, though, it came down to execution - and the Clippers had just a little more of it when it counted. Houston missed open looks and coughed up possessions at key moments, while Los Angeles leaned on its stars and role players alike to grind out a win.
With the victory, the Clippers improved to 26-28 on the season, keeping their momentum alive post-Harden. Houston, now sitting at 33-20, will look to regroup - but they’ll know this one slipped through their fingers.