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Thunder third quarter blitz beats Clippers, 129-107
The LA Clippers’ played the Thunder even for the first half of the game, but they let the home team build a lead in the third quarter and could not forge a comeback. Read more about it below and let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Summary
The game was tight through the first half. Neither team led by more than eight, there were ten lead changes, and four ties. Ultimately, the Thunder took a two point lead into the break. Although the Clippers shot 52% from the field, only Kawhi Leonard and Norman Powell were efficient as individuals (6/7 and 5/7 respectively) in the first half. Paul George struggled from the field all night, finishing 6/16 from the field and 1/6 from three.
As with the Clippers-Timberwolves game, the Clippers struggled in the third quarter. Specifically, they gave up a 13-0 run to the quarter, letting the Thunders’ lead grow to 17, which ultimately decided the game. Before garbage time, the Clippers threatened a comeback, but the Thunder hit shot after shot to keep the Clippers at (more than) arm’s length.
Notes
Standings Watch: After tonight’s loss, the Clippers are the third seed in the Western Conference. They have a one loss advantage over the Denver Nuggets, and are one and two losses behind the Thunder and Timberwolves respectively. On one hand, the Clippers are tied with the most post-All Star Break games, so there are more opportunities to lose. On the other hand, the Clippers have more opportunities to build on their chemistry and solidify their lineups.
Shot Distribution: So far this season, Kawhi and PG are averaging 17 shot attempts to Harden’s 11. Moreover, Kawhi is only taking five threes per game. Of course, their roles are different (especially Harden’s, who is responsible for running the offense), but the Clippers have to find more shots for Kawhi. In a way, one can be too efficient in that it reflect that a player is not aggressive enough—or the team is not searching for the player often enough. In high pressure games like this, especially with PG struggling, the Clippers have to find ways to get Kawhi more easy shots.
Thunder third quarter blitz beats Clippers, 129-107
Kenneth Armstrong