The Clippers faced off against the Nets today, ultimately securing a significant victory at home with a score of 126-67. This win not only set a new franchise record for the largest point differential but also surpassed the previous record of a 58-point margin, with the Clippers leading by over 60 points at one point. In their previous game, the Clippers easily defeated the Heat, with Leonard delivering an average performance while Harden and Powell continued to carry the team. Facing the Nets, who are considered a tanking team, Harden showed no mercy against his former team, with both teams tied at 21-21 in the first quarter.
Harden set a new career milestone, scoring 11 points in a single quarter to surpass Dominique Wilkins' career total of 26,668 points, moving up to 15th place in NBA history. His next target is Oscar Robertson's 26,710 points. After setting this new career high, the Clippers dominated the second quarter with an impressive scoreline. Both Harden and Leonard were on fire, with Powell and Jones also finding their rhythm, and Zubac dominating the paint. The Clippers completely overwhelmed the Nets on both ends of the court, outscoring them 37-14 in the quarter. At halftime, the Clippers led the Nets 58-35.
Harden played 18 minutes, shooting 5 for 9 from the field and 2 for 4 from three-point range, accumulating 15 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists. The second half started with expectations that the Nets might respond, but it turned into a one-sided slaughter. The Clippers opened the third quarter with a 29-3 run, extending their lead to 49 points. At one point, they were ahead by as many as 52 points, effectively putting the game into garbage time. By the end of the third quarter, the Clippers led 102-51, and in the fourth quarter, they extended their lead to over 60 points. Harden finished with 23 minutes of play, shooting 6 for 10 from the field and 3 for 6 from three-point range, contributing 21 points, 6 rebounds, and 11 assists. Leonard, in 23 minutes, shot 8 for 11, significantly improving his form to score 23 points and grab 2 rebounds.
This was Leonard's most efficient shooting performance since his return. Watching just three quarters of the game, one could say that Harden's passing was truly delightful. He completely controlled the court, with his assists making the Clippers flow like mercury. Every player was able to contribute their value, and Tyronn Lue has recently aligned the starting lineup according to the fans' wishes. Harden and Powell in the backcourt, Leonard at the three, Jones starting at the four, and Zubac at center. Dunn has not been living up to the starting power forward role recently, and Mann's injury withdrawal has added to the challenge. Jones has proven to be the most suitable candidate for the four spot.
Leonard's form is indeed returning, shedding the rust on the court. Today, whether it was his fadeaway mid-range shots or his back-to-basket moves, he began to adapt in terms of speed. This is the outcome the Clippers have been eagerly anticipating: Harden maintaining the Clippers' foundation while maximizing the potential of his teammates. Leonard is akin to an air-dropped superstar, replacing Dunn's role. This aligns with Harden's previous vision, where he encouraged Leonard, saying not to worry about affecting the team upon his return because he can fit into any team.
In fact, Leonard and the Clippers do not need to re-adjust; he can step in and contribute immediately. The chemistry between Harden and Leonard has improved. George's departure from the Clippers was actually beneficial; this year, he experienced a sharp decline in performance. Despite earning a 50millionannualsalary,iftheClippershadretainedGeorge,thesituationwouldhavebeendire.Theteam′ssalarycapwouldhavebeenmaxedout.George′sdepartureallowedtheClipperstodecisivelykeepHarden,signinghimfortwoyearsat70 million.
Signing Harden was the most cost-effective move for the Clippers. Based on the current results, Harden is worth a $50 million annual salary. The acquisitions of players like Jones and Dunn have also proven effective. The Clippers still need time, and Leonard's playing time restrictions are gradually being lifted. Once these restrictions are removed, the Clippers will be a formidable force. Of course, the prerequisite is that Leonard remains injury-free. Harden's sole hope for contending this year lies with Leonard; as long as he can stay healthy, even for just once, the Clippers will have a chance to compete for the championship.