James Harden led the Los Angeles Clippers to a dramatic victory over the Houston Rockets, ending a six-game losing streak. Harden made a major impact with a four-point play in the closing seconds of the game, securing a 106-100 win for the Clippers. This victory was Harden’s first win in the Clippers uniform, following his high-profile trade to the team.
Harden finished the game with 24 points on 8-of-11 shooting, including a crucial 2-of-4 from the three-point line. Apart from scoring, he also added nine rebounds and seven assists, being a team-high plus-21 in his 34 minutes on the court. This game also marked the first time Harden registered a positive point differential while playing for the Clippers.
During a courtside interview, Harden shared his thoughts on his first win as a Clipper, Harden stated, “It’s a sign of relief. You know, it’s been some tough times these last few games, but we’ve got a bigger picture here and try to be the last team standing. So, it’s going to be a process, and if you guys stick with us, there’ll be some great results at the end of the season.”
The game’s peak moment came when the score tied at 100. The Clippers initially went to Kawhi Leonard, but Harden eventually took charge to score the game-winning points.
James Harden hits game-winning 3-pointer for His first win with the Clippers
James Harden proved his worth by hitting a game-winning three-pointer against his former team, the Houston Rockets. This crucial play gave the Clippers a much-needed win and also highlighted Harden’s importance to the team’s offensive strategy.
Kawhi Leonard and Paul George also made important contributions, scoring 26 and 23 points. But, it was Harden’s four-point play in the final moments that secured the game for the Clippers. This play solidified his place as one of the best in the NBA for creating and converting four-point opportunities.
The victory was the Clippers’ first win in the NBA In-Season Tournament, improving their record in the Western Conference’s Group B. The win brought some relief to the team, which had faced challenges integrating their new star player into the lineup.
Russell Westbrook will come off the bench for the Clippers
Russell Westbrook, the nine-time All-Star, has reportedly requested to come off the bench for the Los Angeles Clippers. This decision is seen as a move to bolster the team’s second unit and develop better on-court chemistry.
“The biggest thing is getting these guys to sacrifice for guys, whether that’s starting the game, finishing the game, shots, touches, who’s running pick-and-rolls, and things like that,” Tyronn Lue said. “Getting these guys to sacrifice will be the biggest challenge all season.”
BREAKING: Russell Westbrook has requested to come off the bench, per @ChrisBHaynes
Real leadership 🙌 pic.twitter.com/UoYYOE38nO
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) November 17, 2023
This move will change the lineup with Terance Mann starting in Westbrook’s place, indicating a strategic shift by head coach Tyronn Lue aimed at maximizing the team’s performance. Westbrook’s adjustment to his new role could be an important factor in the Clippers’ hopes for success this season.