The Los Angeles Clippers edged out an intense overtime thriller against the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday night, showcasing playoff-level intensity just weeks before the postseason. In a back-and-forth showdown full of star power and late-game heroics, it was the Clippers who held on for the 130-125 win at Chase Center.
This victory not only snapped L.A.’s two-game skid but also reinforced their position in the thick of the Western Conference playoff race. Meanwhile, the Warriors, playing without key players again, showed heart but couldn’t close in crunch time.
Let’s break it all down.
Game / News Breakdown
The contest was neck-and-neck from the opening tip. Both teams matched each other shot-for-shot through four quarters, with momentum swinging wildly in the fourth. Golden State held a seven-point lead with three minutes to play, but the Clippers stormed back behind Kawhi Leonard’s two-way brilliance and a late three-pointer by Norman Powell to force overtime.
In the extra session, the Clippers capitalized on key defensive stops and efficient half-court execution. Russell Westbrook found Ivica Zubac for an easy dunk to take the lead with just over a minute left. From there, Leonard sealed the deal with a mid-range jumper and clutch free throws.
The win marked the Clippers’ second victory over Golden State this season and gave them the head-to-head tiebreaker if standings come into play.
Key Players & Performances
This game was full of standout efforts from both sides, but a few stars rose above the rest:
– **Kawhi Leonard (LAC)**: Leonard finished with a team-high 28 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 steals. His defense on Stephen Curry late in the fourth and in overtime was critical. He looked completely in command on both ends.
– **Russell Westbrook (LAC)**: Coming off the bench, Westbrook added 15 points, 9 assists, and brought unmatched pace to the offense. His leadership in OT didn’t show on the stat sheet but made a difference.
– **Stephen Curry (GSW)**: It was yet another impressive offensive performance from Curry, who dropped 33 points and nailed 7 three-pointers. He kept Golden State afloat in the second half but had few other scoring options step up consistently.
– **Jonathan Kuminga (GSW)**: Continuing his breakout campaign, Kuminga tallied 22 points and 7 rebounds. His energy and cuts to the basket gave the Clippers problems all night.
The Warriors felt the absence of Draymond Green and Gary Payton II, especially on the defensive end. Meanwhile, Paul George was limited offensively but made big plays in crunch time.
Team Impact & Standings
For the Clippers, this win might prove pivotal come playoff seeding time. As of Wednesday night, the Clippers improved to **39-22**, still holding steady as a top-four seed in the West.
– They’re now 2.5 games ahead of the Mavericks and Suns.
– The victory strengthens their bid to maintain home-court advantage in the first round.
For the Warriors, the loss drops them to **33-29**, currently sitting outside the top six and battling in the crowded play-in territory.
– They’re in a tight race with Sacramento, the Lakers, and the Pelicans, all within a few games of each other.
– More pressure lies ahead, especially with Curry playing near peak form but the supporting cast in flux due to injuries and inconsistency.
The head-to-head loss to L.A. could loom large if the teams finish close in the standings.
What’s Next
The Clippers now head home for a tough stretch against playoff-level opposition. They’ll host the Denver Nuggets on Friday in a marquee West matchup that could preview a second-round series.
Key focus points for L.A. moving forward:
– Continue building chemistry with Westbrook leading the second unit.
– Monitor Paul George’s workload ahead of the postseason.
– Get healthier, especially in the frontcourt rotation.
As for the Warriors, the schedule doesn’t ease up. They’ll face the Milwaukee Bucks this weekend before a critical three-game road trip.
Golden State must:
– Find more offensive balance outside of Curry.
– Get defensive reinforcements back soon.
– Start stacking wins to avoid falling deeper into the play-in zone.
Conclusion
The Clippers walked away with the win, but both teams showed flashes of playoff potential in a classic West Coast clash. Leonard’s calm under pressure, combined with Westbrook’s tempo and tactical extensions, made the difference. For the Warriors, it’s another reminder that without a full roster, even Curry’s brilliance isn’t always enough.
With the postseason picture tightening, every game matters. And if Wednesday was any indication, fans are in for a wild finish in the Western Conference.