Clippers Dominate Suns in Home Opener with 129-102 Victory

INGLEWOOD, Calif. — The Los Angeles Clippers bounced back from a rough start to the season, routing the Phoenix Suns 129-102 in their home opener on Friday night. James Harden led the charge with 30 points, while Kawhi Leonard added 27 as the Clippers improved to 1-1.

Harden shot 8-of-11 from the field, including 5-of-6 from behind the arc, and contributed seven rebounds and seven assists. The NBA’s oldest team showcased their shooting prowess, converting 55% of their three-point attempts.

The Suns initially took control, launching a 12-0 run in the first quarter to establish a nine-point lead. However, their momentum quickly faltered. The Clippers responded with a 12-0 run of their own in the second quarter, finishing the half with a 72-56 advantage.

Dillon Brooks led the Suns with 21 points, while Devin Booker managed just 18 points on 10 shot attempts. The Suns struggled offensively, shooting only 41.1% from the field.

“We didn’t stick to our game plan and it cost us,” Brooks said after the game. “We couldn’t match their intensity, especially in the second half.”

In the third quarter, the Clippers extended their lead with another 12-0 run, pushing the deficit to 32 points at one stage. The Suns simply could not keep pace, trailing 106-77 heading into the final period.

The Clippers maintained their dominance throughout the fourth quarter, coasting to victory. The Suns’ lackluster defense allowed the Clippers to dominate the paint 52-34 and control the boards 43-37.

Looking ahead, the Suns will face the Denver Nuggets on Saturday night, while the Clippers will host the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday.