Following three straight losses, the LA Clippers finally won against the Detroit Pistons, 123-115, at home. This was their first victory over a team with a winning record since the Memphis Grizzlies on February 12th, 2025.
Superstar and former MVP James Harden ensured the Pistons would feel his on-court gravity by any means necessary. He began the game scoring 23 in the first quarter and concluded with 50 points and six three-pointers. The flashbacks of his Houston days became prominent; however, the Clippers were the beneficiaries this time.
Though Harden had a team-high in points, he was not the only one scoring. Ivica Zubac continued his insane stretch of performances with 22 points, 11 rebounds, and a +/- of +18. The Pistons tried their best, but the Croatian star torched whoever stood tall in the paint.
Additionally, Bogdan Bogdanović had his best outing with the Clippers. He posted 23 points, three rebounds, and three assists, shooting 50% from the floor in 39 minutes. This game also marked his third start for LA.
Without franchise centerpiece Kawhi Leonard, Lue needed another defensive showcase from Kris Dunn, and he clamped down as anticipated. With eight points, six assists, four rebounds, and three steals, Dunn accumulated deflections left and right. This helped stop Detroit from capturing momentum in his 30 minutes on the court.
The Clippers will need the same players to dominate against the New York Knicks, who they play tonight at Intuit Dome.
In an overtime collapse to the Los Angeles Lakers last night, the Knicks’ top performer was Jalen Brunson, who stamped 39 points and 10 assists. His supporting cast, Josh Hart and OG Anunoby, also played well, combining 38 points and 14 rebounds. Each of Brunson, Hart, and Anunoby played over 40 minutes.
Though they are on the second night of a back-to-back, winning against New York is never an easy challenge.
Is Kawhi Leonard playing tonight?
Despite an absence versus the Detroit Pistons, Kawhi Leonard is set to play tonight against the New York Knicks.
Updated injury report for Clippers vs. Knicks
Tonight, the LA Clippers will be without Cam Christie(G-League), Ben Simmons(left knee injury management), and Norman Powell(right hamstring soreness).
The New York Knicks’ report is much more severe, as they will not have Jalen Brunson(right ankle sprain), Ariel Hukporti(surgery recovery), Mitchell Robinson(surgery recovery), and Kevin McCullar Jr.(G-League). Precious Achiuwa(left hamstring tightness), Pacome Dadiet(G-League), and Tyler Kolek(G-League) were submitted as questionable.