The Clippers have embarked on a three-game road trip, defeating the Pelicans 116-113 today and securing their third consecutive victory. In recent games, the Clippers have won against the Grizzlies away, the Warriors at home, and the Pelicans today. Their next game is against the Spurs, followed by the Thunder. We previously mentioned that for the Clippers, winning one game on this road trip would be satisfactory, two would exceed expectations, and three would be unimaginable. Today's game against the Pelicans was almost a loss, and the Spurs are not an easy opponent this year.
Finally, against the Thunder, the Clippers might even rest Harden as it may not be worth the effort. Therefore, for the Clippers, today's win against the Pelicans guarantees them a minimum score, and they should focus on winning against the Spurs in the next game. They can then prepare to welcome Leonard's return at home against the Hawks. This time, it should not be a false alarm; Leonard initially wanted to return against the Warriors but may have been afraid of getting injured. Facing the Hawks, Leonard should be able to play, and now Harden has established a solid foundation for Leonard.
After defeating the Pelicans, the Clippers' record surpassed the Lakers, placing them fifth in the West, just one win behind the fourth-placed Mavericks. The Clippers have a 19-13 record, while the Mavericks have a 20-12 record. This means that the Clippers have a chance to climb to fourth place in the West before Leonard returns, which would be a dream start for Leonard personally. The Clippers are currently very strong, with Harden, Powell, and Zubac forming a new "Big Three." Under Harden's leadership, Zubac and Powell have both achieved career highlights.
Today, the Pelicans once led by 14 points, but Powell and Dunn stepped up, and in the second half, Harden aggressively attacked, hitting two consecutive three-pointers and scoring 13 points in a single quarter. The Clippers reduced the 14-point gap to 3 points. In the final quarter, Zubac and Powell combined for 18 points, quickly reducing the deficit to 1 point. Powell continued his momentum, hitting a three-pointer, making a layup, and converting free throws. In the closing moments, Harden made two free throws, giving the Clippers a 2-point lead. However, Miye scored only one free throw, and the second was called for a jump ball, which Zubac grabbed. Harden then made two more free throws, and the Pelicans surrendered.
In the entire game, Harden scored 27 points with 4 assists, shooting 5 out of 13 from the field and 5 out of 9 from beyond the arc, quite efficient today. Powell had a divine performance with 35 points, and Zubac went wild recently, scoring 20 points and grabbing 16 rebounds with a 9 out of 12 shooting. Dunn contributed 7 points, 7 assists, and 2 steals, while Jones scored 11 points and created space well. Off the bench, Coffey scored 6 points, Batum 3 points, and Porter 5 points with 2 rebounds and 4 assists. For the Pelicans, McCollum scored an empty 33 points, Murphy 18 points, and Murray 13 points with 10 rebounds and 8 assists.
If Leonard returns, Dunn will likely go to the bench, and Leonard will take the small forward position. The Clippers' starting lineup will feature Harden and Powell in the backcourt, Leonard at the three, Jones at the four, and Zubac. Off the bench, Dunn will join forces with Porter, Coffey, Batum, and Bamba, and when Mann returns, the Clippers' depth will be impressive. This may be where Harden's value lies; he has established a stable foundation for the team. Of course, Harden is also betting on Leonard's condition.
Why did Harden choose to stay with the Clippers for $70 million over two years during the offseason this year? Money-wise, it's just an average contract for him; he could get it anywhere. The key is Leonard, who represents Harden's last hope for a championship. Therefore, Harden is willing to accompany Leonard in betting on his health. If Leonard, who has missed 32 games so far this year plus 34 games against the Spurs and Thunder, cannot maintain his health upon his return, it will be difficult for Harden to stay with the Clippers next year. However, if Leonard stays healthy for a year, what does that mean? With the Clippers currently close to the top four and adding a superstar who excels in both offense and defense, they could instantly become a dark horse in the West.