Clippers Triumph Over Pelicans Amid Postseason Push

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — Kawhi Leonard scored 28 points and James Harden contributed 21 points and 10 assists, leading the Los Angeles Clippers to a 114-98 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday night. With this win, the Clippers marked their fourth victory in five games and their 12th in the last 15 games.

Ivica Zubac added 17 points and 10 rebounds for the Clippers, while Bogdan Bogdanovic contributed 16 points to the scoreline. The victory further solidified the Clippers’ position as they aim for a strong finish as the postseason looms.

New Orleans, meanwhile, has struggled recently, posting a 3-7 record over their last 10 games. Jose Alvarado led the Pelicans with 17 points and 10 assists, but it was Yves Missi who stood out despite the lopsided defeat. Missi recorded six points, 12 rebounds, four assists, and three blocks in 27 minutes of play.

Missi managed to match Zubac’s performance in several key areas, tying his season-high for assists while contributing significantly on the defensive end with three blocked shots. His performance has not gone unnoticed, as analysts suggest he is positioning himself well for a potential starting role in the upcoming 2025-26 season.

The Clippers maintained a 59-47 lead at halftime, bolstered by Leonard’s impressive 18-point showing in the first half. In the second half, they extended their advantage by outscoring the Pelicans by four points, thanks in part to Bogdanovic’s team-high 12 second-half points.

In the aftermath of the game, Pelicans head coach Willie Green addressed the team’s struggles, noting, “We need to find a way to play through the adversity and come together as a unit.” The challenges for the Pelicans were further compounded by injuries, as the team recently announced that forward Zion Williamson (back) and guard CJ McCollum (right foot) would be sidelined for the remainder of the season.

As for the Clippers, they will look to extend their winning streak when they host the Dallas Mavericks on Friday night. Meanwhile, New Orleans will remain in Southern California, preparing to face the Los Angeles Lakers on the same evening.