The LA Clippers pulled off a remarkable 26-point comeback win against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Crypto.com Arena. Paul George's standout performance led the charge as he scored 23 of his 39 points in the fourth quarter, securing a thrilling 120-118 victory for the Clippers.
Despite being down 94-68 with just over six minutes remaining, George's exceptional play propelled the team to their 50th win of the season. Playing a total of 44 minutes, George also contributed 11 rebounds and went a perfect 16-of-16 from the free-throw line. His go-ahead shot with 7.1 seconds left and a crucial block in the final seconds sealed the win for the Clippers.
The Clippers' head coach, Ty Lue, trusted George to lead the comeback, allowing him to stay on the court for the entire second half. James Harden, who had 22 points, sat out the fourth quarter due to a right foot injury.
Trailing by as much as seven points with under three minutes left, the Clippers mounted a 29-6 run to close the gap. Terrance Mann and Amir Coffey hit back-to-back 3-pointers to give the Clippers a late lead. George's clutch stepback shot put the team ahead for good, with Russell Westbrook contributing crucial defensive plays to secure the victory.
The win marked the Clippers' sixth victory in their last seven games, showcasing their resilience and ability to overcome deficits. Coach Lue emphasized the importance of maintaining their momentum and improving as they head towards the playoffs.
With a record of 50-28, the Clippers are proving themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the competitive NBA landscape. Despite missing key player Kawhi Leonard, the team's depth and determination have been key factors in their recent success.