In a highly anticipated matchup between Western Conference heavyweights, the Los Angeles Clippers edged out the Houston Rockets in a thrilling overtime showdown on Thursday night.
The Clippers were led by the dynamic duo of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, who combined for 58 points, 18 rebounds, and 8 assists. Leonard poured in 28 points on 9-of-24 shooting, while George added 30 points on 11-of-25 shooting.
The Rockets were paced by their own star duo of James Harden and Russell Westbrook, who tallied a combined 69 points, 21 rebounds, and 16 assists. Harden registered a game-high 37 points on 12-of-27 shooting, while Westbrook chipped in 32 points on 14-of-26 shooting.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with neither team able to take control in regulation. The Clippers held a narrow 54-52 lead at halftime, but the Rockets stormed back in the third quarter to take a 75-73 advantage heading into the fourth.
In the final period, the Clippers rallied to take a five-point lead with just over two minutes remaining. But the Rockets fought back, with Westbrook hitting a clutch three-pointer to tie the game at 117-117 with just 25 seconds left.
Leonard had a chance to win it for the Clippers in regulation, but his fadeaway jumper missed the mark, sending the game into overtime.
In the extra period, it was the Clippers who made the decisive plays. Leonard and George both hit big shots, and Lou Williams added a handful of clutch free throws to seal the 122-119 victory for the home team.
The win was a statement victory for the Clippers, who improved to 44-19 on the season and solidified their spot as one of the NBA’s top teams. The loss dropped the Rockets to 39-23, but they remain in the thick of the playoff race in the crowded Western Conference.
The game also showcased the talents of some of the league’s biggest stars, with Leonard and George showing why they are one of the NBA’s most elite tandems, and Harden and Westbrook once again proving why they are among the most explosive offensive players in the game today.
Overall, the Clippers’ thrilling overtime win over the Rockets was a reminder of the excitement and drama that can unfold on any given night in the NBA, and a thrilling showcase of some of the league’s top talent.