Kawhi Leonard once again proved why he is one of the most decisive players in the NBA by leading the Los Angeles Clippers to a tight 103-102 victory over the Golden State Warriors in a game full of tension, refereeing controversy and key decisions in the final seconds.
Leonard signed a complete performance with 24 points and 12 rebounds, being the absolute referent of the Los Angeles team on both sides of the court. His presence was especially valuable in a game where the Clippers were without James Harden, who was ruled out shortly before the start of the game due to discomfort in his right shoulder.
Match ignites with Kerr’s dismissal
Despite Harden’s absence, the Los Angeles Clippers showed offensive depth.
Kobe Brown, a young forward who continues to gain prominence in the rotation, scored an NBA-high 20 points.
John Collins scored 18, Kris Dunn added 16 and Ivica Zubac dominated the paint with 11 rebounds, allowing all five starters to finish in double digits.
The game took a key turn when Golden State coach Steve Kerr was ejected with 7:57 to play.
This after complaining angrily about a possible offensive interference that was not sanctioned.
The coach chased the referees down the sideline, forcing his assistants to intervene before the officials made the final decision.
The Clippers were without James Harden
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Kawhi sentences a heart-stopping finish
On the court, Stephen Curry carried the Warriors’ offense.
The point guard finished with 27 points, although he had an irregular night from the perimeter (4 of 15 in three-pointers).
The most eye-catching moment came with 42 seconds left, when Curry committed his sixth personal foul, exiting the game for the first time since December 2021.
With Golden State down by one point, Dunn converted two key free throws for the Clippers.
Draymond Green answered with a basket in the paint, leaving the score within one possession.
Leonard missed a layup and the Warriors had the last chance, but the final attempt didn’t go in and time ran out.
The win confirmed the Clippers’ home form against Golden State.
They have defeated them eight consecutive times in that condition.
And he made it clear that, when Kawhi Leonard is healthy and focused, the Los Angeles Clippers remain an uncomfortable opponent in the West.
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