The Los Angeles Clippers narrowly defeated the Orlando Magic in a thrilling 100-97 road win on Friday night. Kawhi Leonard led the Clippers with 29 points, including a crucial go-ahead jumper in the final seconds of the game. The victory marked the Clippers’ second win on a four-game road trip, while the Magic suffered their third consecutive home loss.
The game was a closely contested affair, with both teams struggling with turnovers. The Clippers committed 17 turnovers, which the Magic capitalized on with a 22-15 advantage in points off turnovers. Despite the turnovers, the Clippers managed to secure the win with key plays down the stretch.
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James Harden made a significant impact for the Clippers, recording four steals, including a crucial steal that led to Paul George’s basket to seal the victory. Harden’s defensive efforts, combined with Leonard’s scoring prowess, were instrumental in the Clippers’ success.
Orlando’s Paolo Banchero put up a valiant effort with 23 points and eight rebounds, but his seven turnovers proved costly for the Magic. Franz Wagner also contributed with 13 points, but struggled with his shooting efficiency. The Magic were unable to reach the 100-point mark for the second consecutive game, as the Clippers’ defense proved to be too tough to crack.
In addition to Leonard’s scoring, Ivica Zubac chipped in with 14 points and nine rebounds for the Clippers. Harden added 11 points, while Norman Powell provided a spark off the bench with 10 points. Mason Plumlee contributed eight points in a reserve role, helping the Clippers secure the victory.
With the win, the Clippers improved to 2-0 on their road trip, showcasing their resilience and ability to win close games on the road. On the other hand, the Magic will look to bounce back from their recent home struggles and get back on track in their next game.
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Overall, the game was a thrilling display of NBA action, with both teams fighting hard until the final buzzer. The Clippers’ ability to execute in clutch moments ultimately proved to be the difference in securing the win. As the NBA season continues, both teams will look to build on their performances and continue to compete at a high level.
In conclusion, the Los Angeles Clippers’ victory over the Orlando Magic was a testament to their resilience and ability to win close games on the road. With key contributions from Leonard, Harden, and Zubac, the Clippers were able to secure a hard-fought win and improve their record on the road trip. The Magic will look to regroup and bounce back from their recent struggles as they aim to turn their season around. The NBA season is full of exciting matchups and unpredictable outcomes, making every game a must-watch for basketball fans..
Kawhi Leonard scored the last of his game-high 29 points on a go-ahead jumper with 34.1 seconds remaining and the Los Angeles Clippers escaped with a 100-97 road win over the Orlando Magic on Friday.
Playing their second game of a four-game road swing, the Clippers struggled with turnovers against a stout Orlando defense. Every Los Angeles player who saw the floor coughed up possession at least once for 17 in total, which the Magic converted into a 22-15 advantage in points off turnovers.
The two biggest turnovers of the night were in the Clippers‘ favor, however.
Leonard’s basket, which proved to be the game-winner, came off a James Harden steal of Paolo Banchero.
Harden struck again for his fourth and final steal after Los Angeles pulled ahead by one point, intercepting a Banchero pass attempt. That led to a Paul George basket, part of his 12 points, effectively putting the game away with 5.1 seconds to play.
Banchero scored a team-high 23 points and grabbed eight rebounds but committed seven of Orlando’s 17 total turnovers. Franz Wagner finished with 13 points but shot just 5 of 13 from the floor, including 0-for-3 from 3-point. The last of those misses was when his overtime-forcing effort at the buzzer was no good.
Los Angeles got 14 points and nine rebounds from Ivica Zubac, 11 points from Harden, and 10 points off the bench from Norman Powell. Mason Plumlee added another eight points in reserve duty.
Leonard grabbed a game-high 11 rebounds and his five assists matched teammate Russell Westbrook and Orlando’s Jalen Suggs for game high.
Suggs also scored 15 points in the loss. Moritz Wagner scored 12 points off the bench and grabbed a team-high nine rebounds.
With the win, Los Angeles improves to 2-0 on its road swing. The Magic dropped their third straight at home and failed to reach 100 points for the second straight game.
—Field Level Media
Source
Field Level Media said James Harden’s late defense lifts Clippers past Magic
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