CHICAGO — The Los Angeles Clippers ended their three-game skid with a 122-117 victory over the Chicago Bulls Wednesday night. A standout performance by James Harden, who netted 30 points and hit seven three-pointers, helped the Clippers regain their momentum.
The team welcomed back Kawhi Leonard, who had been sidelined due to foot soreness, contributing 17 points and eight rebounds. Amir Coffey also played a significant role, finishing with 20 points, as the Clippers moved to sixth place, half a game above Minnesota in the Western Conference standings.
Despite missing key players like Norman Powell, who is out due to left knee issues, the Clippers capitalized on early advantages, outscoring Chicago 14-8 in the paint during the opening quarter. This efficient start set the tone, as Los Angeles took a 31-26 lead after the first 12 minutes.
The Bulls fought back, showcasing their depth and resilience. Zach Collins led Chicago with season highs: 21 points and 17 rebounds, forming a powerful combination with Josh Giddey, who provided 21 points and 12 assists. Notably, Collins thrived under the basket, asserting himself nicely when Nikola Vucevic was absent due to calf tightness.
The second quarter highlighted Chicago's offensive prowess, as the Bulls executed a well-orchestrated 8-0 run, driven by Giddey’s assists to Collins. Their sharp passing and movement off the ball troubled the Clippers, enabling the Bulls to surmount and gain the lead at halftime, 60-59.
But as the game moved to the second half, the Bulls' problems with ball handling soon emerged, disrupting their momentous flow. The Clippers took advantage, scoring on several fast breaks, shifting the game’s momentum back with some clutch defensive plays by Leonard and Kris Dunn. The Clippers opened the third quarter on an 8-3 run, reclaiming their lead.
Josh Giddey responded strongly to the Clippers' resurgence, hitting two three-pointers and steering his team amid turmoil. His growth as a player was evident, reflecting increased confidence and savvy since the All-Star break.
Yet every time the Bulls seemed poised to equalize, the Clippers would counter with key shots. At the close of the third quarter, James Harden's exceptional shooting performance rekindled the Clippers’ lead, as they entered the final frame comfortably positioned at 98-93.
The final quarter evolved as the Bulls sought to claw back, propelled by noteworthy plays from Giddey, Tre Jones, and Zach Collins. The initiative had the Bulls narrowing the gap, but every push was met with swift Clippers’ responses, including pivotal shots by Harden.
With just under one minute left, the Bulls were down 117-114 and had the opportunity to tie the game with Coby White's contested three, which fell short, sealing the Clippers' fate when Harden struck again from beyond the arc, solidifying the lead.
The Clippers marked relief as they halted their losing streak. Coach Tyronn Lue conveyed the team's reliance on Leonard’s return, underscoring his importance as they push for postseason success.
Turning to the Bulls, their eighth loss in nine games highlighted struggles they must confront. Their coach, Billy Donovan, emphasized they wouldn’t give up and will keep putting forth the effort to improve, acknowledging the significant contributions from Giddey and Collins.
Looking forward, the Clippers prepare for their upcoming matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers, eager to maintain their renewed winning momentum.