The Los Angeles Clippers (4-4) secured a 110-98 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers (1-6) on Wednesday night, marking Paul George’s highly anticipated return to LA.
George, who is on a minutes restriction due to a left knee injury, contributed 18 points and seven rebounds in 24 minutes for the Sixers.
Norman Powell led the charge for the Clippers, scoring 26 points and extending his streak of games with 20 or more points to seven. Powell’s performance, including five 3-pointers, was a key factor in the Clippers’ win. James Harden added 18 points, four rebounds, and six assists in his second game with LA.
Philadelphia, still missing Joel Embiid due to a suspension, struggled against a well-rounded Clippers team. Kelly Oubre Jr. paced the Sixers with 18 points, while Tyrese Maxey scored 12 points before exiting the game with a right hamstring injury.
The Clippers took control of the game in the fourth quarter, stretching their lead to 94-72 after Amir Coffey’s 3-pointer. Powell’s offensive firepower, combined with strong contributions from Ivica Zubac (15 points, nine rebounds) and Derrick Jones Jr. (14 points), helped Los Angeles maintain a comfortable lead down the stretch.
The loss drops the 76ers to 1-6, with their only win coming in overtime against the Indiana Pacers. They have now lost four straight games.
The game also saw the Clippers’ offense click without Kawhi Leonard, who is still recovering from inflammation in his right knee. The Clippers have had to rely on their depth, and players like Powell, Harden, and Zubac have stepped up in Leonard’s absence.
