The LA Clippers (11-16) had their win streak snapped against the Washington Wizards (16-13) after John Wall and Bradley Beal hit consecutive 3 pointers in the final minutes.
The LA Clippers kept it close for most of the game but with about four minutes left, John Wall and Bradley Beal would come down and extend the lead, putting the Clippers down and out. Lou Williams would hit a three to cut it down to four but that would be as close as the team would get the rest of the game.
Williams led the Clippers with 23 points starting in with Milos Teodosic (rest) and Austin Rivers (concussion) both out. Jawun Evans filled up the stat sheet with 40 minutes played, 15 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists, and 5 steals. Evans played the most minutes with 40, but used his time wisely and practically outplayed Wall. DeAndre Jordan added 12 points and 16 rebounds.
The Clippers left a lot on the table, only shooting 18/29 from the free throw line and 7/24 on 3 pointers taken. The same might be said for the Wizards who had a tougher night with the deep ball going 7/31.
Mike Scott led the way for the Wizards shooting lights out going 8/9 from the field. In 24 minutes, he scored 22 points. Beal chipped in 20 and a much-needed mid range shot with four minutes left that put space between both teams.
Milos Rests
Milos Teodosic got a night off to rest. With the Clippers playing the Miami Heat in their back to back, Doc opted to save the Serbian guard for the “easier” game. Having missed 22 games, the Clippers seem to side with caution rather than run Milos out before he is ready. The two recent games Milos has played has given the offense more structure and has helped with ball movement.
Patrick Beverley seems to be out for the year and with that it moved Austin Rivers into the starting line up. Rivers is out because of a concussion last game vs the Orlando Magic, so while the Clippers look to Santa for health this Christmas, it is going to be interesting to really see what this team can do when they are healthy.
Looking forward
The Clippers have a quick turn around and play the Miami Heat, Saturday at 5pm PST. The Heat are coming off a win against the fleeting Charlotte Hornets. Against the Hornets, the Heat had seven players in double figures, and the Clippers should expect the same when they play the Heat.
It took James Johnson with seconds left to score a win for the Heat against the Clippers on Nov 5th. The Clippers came from being down 25 to have a chance to win but with those free throws it would help seal the win for Miami. The Clippers will need to come out with more energy and feed their All Star Center DeAndre Jordan.
Clippers Key injuries
Blake Griffin – Out (Knee)
Danilo Gallinari – Out (Glute)
Milos Teodosic – Out (Rest)
Austin Rivers – Out (Concussion)
Patrick Beverley – Out Season (Knee)