Clippers hold off Blazers for fourth straight win

Kawhi Leonard scores 34 points as Clippers extend winning streak. Anfernee Simons scores 38 points for Trail Blazers. Los Angeles wins.

Kawhi Leonard put up an impressive 34 points to lead the Los Angeles Clippers to a hard-fought 132-127 victory over the visiting Portland Trail Blazers, extending their winning streak to a season-best four games.

Joining Leonard in the scoring efforts were James Harden and Paul George, who each contributed 20 points, and Ivica Zubac, who added 18. The Clippers have been on a hot streak, going 9-3 since November 17th, and have shown significant improvement, with a record of 9-8 since the addition of Harden in a trade from the Philadelphia 76ers.

Despite a valiant effort from Anfernee Simons, who scored a season-high 38 points for the Trail Blazers, the team has been struggling, losing their fourth consecutive game and posting a 3-13 record since November 5th. The absence of key players like Jerami Grant, Deandre Ayton, and Malcolm Brogdon has undoubtedly taken a toll on the team's performance.

The game was a back-and-forth battle, with the Clippers taking the lead after a personal 7-0 run by Russell Westbrook and never trailing until a late surge from the Trail Blazers. However, the Clippers managed to regain the lead with key plays from Terance Mann, Ivica Zubac, and Paul George, ultimately securing the win with a strong finish.

The Clippers' performance was particularly impressive in the first quarter, where they shot a remarkable 76% from the field and established an early lead. Despite a comeback from the Trail Blazers in the second quarter, the Clippers maintained their composure and ultimately emerged victorious.

Overall, the game was a testament to the Clippers' resilience and determination, as they continue to build momentum and solidify their position as a force to be reckoned with in the NBA. With key players like Leonard, Harden, and George leading the charge, the Clippers are poised for further success as they look ahead to the rest of the season.

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