INDIANAPOLIS – Kawhi Leonard delivered another clutch performance, hitting a jumper with just 0.4 seconds remaining to lift the Los Angeles Clippers to a stunning 114-113 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Friday night. The Clippers overcame a daunting 24-point deficit, securing their fourth consecutive win and giving coach Tyronn Lue his 400th career victory.
Leonard finished with 28 points, extending his streak of games with at least 20 points to 50 straight. Darius Garland led all scorers with 30 points for the Clippers, who found themselves trailing significantly early in the contest. The Pacers, playing with a sense of urgency, came out firing, establishing a commanding lead in the first quarter.
Indiana’s hot start saw them connect on 8 of 11 three-point attempts, building a 42-21 advantage after the first period. The Pacers extended that lead to 45-21 early in the second quarter, seemingly poised for a comfortable victory. However, the Clippers refused to surrender, mounting a furious comeback that ultimately turned the tide.
The Clippers’ resurgence began with a renewed defensive effort and a more focused offensive approach. Garland’s scoring prowess and Leonard’s consistent scoring proved crucial in chipping away at the Pacers’ lead. The game remained tightly contested throughout the second half, with both teams trading baskets.
With just a minute remaining, Indiana regained a 113-108 lead on a jumper from Obi Toppin. But Leonard responded immediately with a jump shot of his own, followed by two free throws from Garland, bringing the Clippers within one point. After a missed jumper by Pascal Siakam, the Clippers had one last opportunity.
The Clippers inbounded the ball to Leonard, who drove into the middle of the floor and calmly released a jumper as time expired. The shot found the bottom of the net, sending the Clippers bench into a frenzy and silencing the Indiana crowd.
The Pacers had a chance to tie or win the game after the Clippers’ Brook Lopez was called for a foul on the inbounds play. However, Jay Huff, an 83.7% free throw shooter, missed both attempts, sealing the Pacers’ fate.
Bennedict Mathurin scored 17 points against his former team, shooting 12-for-15 from the free-throw line. Aaron Nesmith led the Pacers with 26 points, while Toppin added 20. Indiana has now lost two straight games following a 16-game winning streak.
The Pacers were without forward Jarace Walker, who was evaluated for a concussion during the first half. His absence was felt as the Clippers’ comeback gained momentum.
This victory marks a significant milestone for coach Tyronn Lue, who secured his 400th career win. Lue’s leadership and the Clippers’ resilience were on full display in this hard-fought contest.
What’s Next: The Clippers will continue their road trip with a matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday. The Pacers will return home to host the Miami Heat on Sunday.
The Clippers’ ability to overcome a substantial deficit speaks to their championship aspirations. Leonard’s clutch shooting and Garland’s consistent scoring build them a formidable opponent, and their recent success suggests they are peaking at the right time. Fans can expect more exciting contests as the NBA season progresses.
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