The LA Clippers managed to make a comeback against the Houston Rockets, but couldn’t see the win through.
The LA Clippers continued their losing ways, this time against the Houston Rockets in what was a star-studded affair.
Just days after James Harden reached the top-10 on the NBA’s scoring list, he went back to the city where he made a name for himself as a superstar.
For all the talk of Kevin Durant’s greatness as a scorer, the future Hall of Famer struggled to score, ending up with just 16 points on inefficient shooting.
But what was truly interesting was the performance of Clippers center Ivica Zubac, who led the Clippers and the entire game in scoring, doing everything in his power to get his team the win.
Ivica Zubac continues All-Star form against Houston Rockets
Once again, the LA Clippers had to turn to Ivica Zubac to lead them on the court, as he put up the most points on the team with 29 points.
His scoring outburst, especially in the fourth quarter, kept the LA Clippers in the game even when their star players struggled to make shots.
Is Ivica Zubac a candidate for Most Improved Player?
Despite the LA Clippers struggling, Ivica Zubac has been balling out!
On top of that, he was a big presence on the defensive end, guarding Alperen Sengun and committing just 2 fouls while stealing the ball once and blocking two shots.
In the end, despite Zubac’s best efforts, it was some bad mistakes from the LA Clippers that cost them the win. Perhaps Zubac will be better off being traded to another team.
Kawhi Leonard’s inefficiency costs LA Clippers a win
On the night, Kawhi Leonard put up some decent numbers against the Houston Rockets, scoring 24 points, grabbing 9 rebounds, and 4 steals.
However, it was his inefficiency that ended up costing the LA Clippers the game, as Leonard went an abysmal 9-22 from the field and 3-10 from beyond the arc.
Had Leonard been able to sink more of his attempts from the field, perhaps the Clippers could have walked away with a big win.
Instead, Leonard’s presence on the team continues to not be enough to dig them out of the hole they have made for themselves.
Kevin Durant can thank Amen Thompson and Alperen Sengun for the win
Kawhi Leonard was far from the only superstar to struggle on the offensive end tonight. Kevin Durant also put up some poor shooting numbers.
Durant scored just 16 points on 5-14 shooting, far from what we have come to expect from him. However, Durant’s trade to the Rockets paid off, as he was able to rely on his teammates.
What moves do the Houston Rockets need to make to win the NBA title?
Join the debate; share your insight. Use the comment button on the bottom left to have your say
Alperen Sengun scored 22 points while Amen Thompson scored 20 points, leading the Rockets in scoring and making up for an off-night from Durant.
This Rockets team is showing they have the depth and pieces to make a genuine run at the NBA championship this season.
Join the debate; share your insight. Use the comment button on the bottom left to have your say