In a high‑scoring showdown at Crypto.com Arena, the Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Toronto Raptors 121‑117, with Paul George delivering a 30‑point, 9‑assist performance that kept the Clippers within a game of the West’s sixth seed. The win marks the Clippers’ third straight victory and underscores their offensive surge heading into the final stretch of the season.
Game Overview
The matchup turned into an NBA shoot‑out from tip‑off, featuring 23 lead changes and 42 ties. Both teams exchanged three‑pointers throughout, ending the first half dead‑locked at 58‑58 before the Clippers pulled ahead in the second half.
Key Runs and Clutch Moments
Third‑quarter surge: An 18‑6 run gave Los Angeles a seven‑point edge, highlighted by George’s aggressive drives and four straight free throws that extended the lead to 84‑77.
Late‑game heroics: Kawhi Leonard nailed a go‑ahead three‑pointer with 2:13 left, while Norman Powell’s steal sealed the victory after a missed three by Gary Trent Jr.
Raptors rally: Fred VanVleet’s 24 points sparked a 20‑point surge in the final six minutes, narrowing the gap to a single basket before the Clippers closed it out.
Statistical Snapshot
- Paul George: 30 points (12‑of‑20 FG, 5‑of‑8 3PT), 9 assists
- Kawhi Leonard: 28 points
- Ivica Zubac: 12 points, 11 rebounds (double‑double)
- Raptors top scorers: Pascal Siakam 26 points, Fred VanVleet 24 points, OG Anunoby 12 points
- Shooting efficiency: Clippers 51.2% FG (55‑of‑107), 19/38 3PT; Raptors 49.5% FG (53‑of‑107), 15/38 3PT
- Total points: 262 combined, the highest-scoring game of the season
Implications for Playoff Race
The victory improves the Clippers to 32‑23, keeping them within one game of the West’s sixth seed and solidifying their home‑court advantage aspirations. Coach Tyron Lue praised the roster’s resilience after a recent slump.
For Toronto, the loss drops the Raptors to 28‑30, maintaining pressure on their play‑in positioning. Coach Darko Rosoja emphasized the need for better defensive communication in transition to close out tight games.
Future Outlook
Clippers: Next up is a Thursday matchup against the Denver Nuggets, a critical test for securing a top‑four seed. Offensive production looks strong, but defensive tightening is required to lower the 117 points allowed.
Raptors: The team travels to Boston for a pivotal series against the Celtics. Maintaining composure in close contests will be essential to staying in the play‑in conversation.
