In a closely contested matchup, Kawhi Leonard showcased his clutch gene as he led the Los Angeles Clippers (46-27) to a 100-97 win over the Orlando Magic (42-31) on Friday night.
Leonard’s heroics included a decisive mid-range jumper with 34 seconds remaining, propelling the Clippers to their fifth win in six road games and maintaining their fourth-place position in the Western Conference standings. The two-time champion finished the game with 29 points and 11 rebounds.
Despite a strong effort from Orlando’s Paolo Banchero, who tallied 23 points and eight rebounds, the Magic fell short for the third consecutive game.
Jalen Suggs chipped in 15 points for the Magic, while Moritz Wagner provided a spark off the bench with 12 points and nine rebounds.
The Clippers surged ahead in the second half, with Ivica Zubac’s contributions offensively and defensively helping them establish a double-digit lead.
However, Orlando mounted a comeback behind Banchero’s scoring burst, briefly regaining the lead before Leonard and Amir Coffey’s timely 3-pointers shifted momentum back in favor of the Clippers.
