Clippers Surge as Harden Nears Triple-Double in Key Win

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — James Harden recorded 21 points, nine rebounds, and 12 assists on Tuesday, guiding the Los Angeles Clippers to a 122-117 victory over the San Antonio Spurs.

The game marked another near-triple-double performance for Harden, who logged 38 minutes on the court and showcased improvement in his three-point shooting, going 3-for-6 from beyond the arc.

Despite being one rebound short of achieving his third triple-double of the season, Harden’s presence was felt as he continued to contribute significantly to the Clippers’ playoff push. “I’ve been focusing on taking better shots and making the right plays for my teammates,” Harden said. “It’s all about winning right now.”

Harden’s performance comes at a crucial time as the Clippers, alongside teammates Kawhi Leonard and Ivica Zubac, are heating up ahead of the postseason. Leonard scored 27 points, while Zubac contributed 15 points and 10 rebounds, reflecting a strong team effort in securing the victory.

With the playoff picture tightening, the Clippers have solidified their position and are eyeing a deep run in the upcoming playoffs. “We are hitting our stride at the right moment,” Zubac said post-game. “We just need to keep building on this momentum.”

As the regular season winds down, the cohesion between Harden, Leonard, and Zubac could be pivotal for the Clippers’ chances. The trio’s ability to effectively complement each other’s games has provided a potent offense, crucial for the high-stakes environment of the playoffs.

Coach Tyronn Lue expressed optimism about his team’s current trajectory. “We’re just trying to stay healthy and find our rhythm before the playoffs,” he stated. “The talent we have is undeniable when we’re all clicking.”