Clips Flip the Script

01/04/2024 Clips Flip the Script

By: Jeff Yoder

L.A. Clippers Keep Hot Streak Rolling In 2024, Stars Clicking in Wire-to-Wire Win Over Suns (131-122)

We’re guilty. We were one of them. Back in October, the L.A. Clippers swung a deal for James Harden, then they went on a losing streak. The media buried them and chastised the franchise’s never-ending saga of bad luck. We did, too. But those pesky Clippers have appeared to turn things around and flip the script. The Clippers never trailed in last night’s 131-122 win over the Suns, and their ‘Big 3’ looked as locked in (as a group) as they ever have. Paul George (33 points), Kawhi Leonard (30 points) and James Harden (22 points, 11 assists) combined for 85 points on a collective 55-percent shooting night from the floor (56.5%, 3-pt). The Clips led by as many as 23.

 

Clips Flip the Script: L.A. was just 3-7 after that horrific start that brought a six-game skid following the Harden acquisition. They were just 8-10 by the end of November, but they’ve been one of the hottest teams in the NBA through December, and beyond. L.A. has now won four straight and 13 of their last 15, with the only two losses since November coming at the hands of the Celtics and Thunder — both quality opponents. The Clips appear to have it figured out. They’re 21-12 and just three games back of 1st in the West. Few would’ve predicted that at Thanksgiving.

 

Watch: Re-Energized Clippers Beat Suns in Wire-to-Wire Clinic (131-122)

 

More NBA Win Streaks

Hali Dazzles, Pacers Out-Run Bucks

Tyrese Haliburton’s breakout season continues. Hali and the Pacers outshined Giannis and the Bucks (142-130) in another Indiana track meet. The star guard went for 31 points and 12 assists, including some no-look highlight-reel dimes, and the Pacers are winners of five straight. Indiana is also closing in on the NBA record for most 140-point games in a single season (10). Wednesday marked their 7th 140-point night in just 33 games.

 

Effective Zion & Pels Tally 4th Straight

Zion Williamson (27 points, 6 assists, 4 rebounds) was a force Wednesday night as the Pelicans held off the West-leading Timberwolves (117-106) and Anthony Edwards (35 points). New Orleans is another club starting to stack wins (four straight).

 

Other NBA Highlights

Heat Handle Lakers in L.A. (110-96)

Jazz Beat Pistons in OT (154-148, OT)

Hawks End Thunder’s 5-Game Streak (141-138)

Brunson Big as Knicks Beat Bulls (116-100)

Kings Top Magic in 2OT Thriller (138-135, 2OT)

Luka Doncic Posts 41 in Easy Win Over Blazers (126-97)

 

Photo: Harry How / Getty Images