James Harden scored 34 points, Brook Lopez added 31—including a career-high nine 3-pointers—and Kawhi Leonard contributed 28 points as the Los Angeles Clippers (9-21) defeated the Portland Trail Blazers (12-19) 119-103 Friday night at the Moda Center.
The Clippers overcame a 12-point halftime deficit, outscoring Portland 63-41 in the second half, highlighted by a 19-1 third-quarter run that gave Los Angeles control.
Deni Avdija led the Trail Blazers with 27 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists, while Damian Lillard was absent due to injury, limiting Portland’s offensive firepower.
Portland held a 71-59 lead with 8:16 left in the third quarter before the Clippers tied the game at 72 on a Harden driving layup and free throws. Lopez’s three consecutive 3-pointers then pushed Los Angeles ahead for good.
Leonard scored 18 of his 28 points in the fourth quarter, including a dunk over Donovan Clingan and clutch baskets during a 101-88 run with 8:19 remaining.
Harden also made key plays down the stretch, including a four-point play that extended the lead to 85-77 late in the third quarter.
The Clippers shot 51% overall and 50% from three, while converting 29-of-31 free throws, compared to Portland’s 44% field goal shooting and 41% from long range. Los Angeles also held a 32-43 rebounding deficit but dominated in scoring efficiency and ball movement.
Lopez’s nine 3-pointers tied his career high and marked a significant factor in the Clippers’ comeback, while Leonard contributed eight rebounds and six assists, demonstrating a complete team effort.
With the win, the Clippers extend their three-game winning streak and prepare to host the Detroit Pistons on Sunday, while Portland will face the Boston Celtics at home.
