Hawks Rally for Narrow Win Against Clippers in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Atlanta Hawks overcame a 17-point deficit to defeat the Los Angeles Clippers 105-102 on Monday night, marking the Hawks’ second consecutive victory of the season. Vit Krejci led the way with a career-high 28 points off the bench, including eight 3-pointers made out of 10 attempts.

Krejci’s crucial 3-pointer with 36 seconds left gave Atlanta a 105-98 lead. James Harden of the Clippers made a four-point play 25 seconds later, narrowing the margin. However, he missed a game-tying 3-pointer with just 12 seconds left, sealing the Hawks’ win.

Jalen Johnson contributed 16 points and 10 rebounds, helping the Hawks bounce back after losing star players Trae Young and Nickeil Alexander-Walker to injuries. Kristaps Porzingis, who returned after missing a previous game due to illness, added 20 points.

Despite Harden’s impressive performance scoring 35 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds, the Clippers suffered their fifth straight loss. Ivica Zubac added 13 points and 12 rebounds, but the team struggled without star Kawhi Leonard, who was sidelined due to an ankle injury.

Atlanta captured momentum with a 20-3 run in the second quarter, turning a 19-36 deficit into a 42-41 lead before halftime. The game was tied at 52 at the break, and the Hawks took a 79-76 lead after three quarters.

Harden’s two consecutive three-pointers tied the game at 92 with just over five minutes left, but Krejci quickly responded with another 3-pointer, giving Atlanta a crucial advantage. The victory sets the stage for the Hawks as they continue their West Coast road trip.

The Hawks will face the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday, while the Clippers will host the Denver Nuggets the same day.