WASHINGTON D.C. — Kawhi Leonard and James Harden lead the Clippers to an easy win over the Wizards, 125-109
Kawhi Leonard had 31 points and 9 rebounds on 14/25 shooting from the floor. While James Harden scored 25 points and also grabbed 9 rebounds.
Although Paul George was out this game, Amir Coffey was able to fill in the shoes and deliver a helpful performance. To help Kawhi and Harden with the scoring responsibility, Coffey was the third leading scorer with 17 points.
In the loss, Kyle Kuzma led the way for the Wizards with 27 points. Washington also saw young players step up with Bilal Coulibay scoring 19 points and Cory Kispert scoring 16 points.
Los Angeles was the more aggressive team as the attacked the Wizards on defense and in transition. The Clippers had 19 free throws on the game compared to the Wizard’s 10. The Clippers were also able to outscore the Wizards on the fast break 24-12.
“Lock in and give up 25 and 19 in the second and third quarter was huge for us” Coach Ty Lue said “It allowed us to get the lead and it was kinda over after that.”
The Wizards scored 35 points in the first quarter and were within reach with the Clippers. It was imperative for the Clippers to step up on defense and grow their 37-35 lead.
The Clippers outscored the Wizards 69-44 in the second and third quarter. This stretched the Clippers lead to 106-79 before the fourth quarter.
As the Clippers were more active on defense, they were able to record 9 steals and forced 13 turnovers overall on the night.
With the game out of reach, the Wizards were able to end the game with a 20-8 run to make the final score a little bit closer.
Los Angeles has bounced back from the loss to the Cavs and have now won 6 of their past 7 games. The Clippers will continue their road trip to Detroit on Friday to take on the 6-41 Pistons.
