INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — Norman Powell tallied 20 points, with Kawhi Leonard contributing 12 in his season debut as the Los Angeles Clippers triumphed with a decisive 131-105 win over the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday night.
Making his return after sitting out the first 34 games due to a right knee injury recovery, Leonard saw 19 minutes of play. The star was 4 of 11 from the field, sinking three 3-pointers, while also grabbing three rebounds and dishing out one assist.
Ivica Zubac showcased an impressive performance with 18 points and 18 rebounds, aiding the Clippers in snapping a two-game losing streak. Amir Coffey also shone with 17 points.
Atlanta’s Trae Young stood out for the Hawks, recording 20 points and 14 assists. De’Andre Hunter contributed 18 points for Atlanta, who have now suffered three consecutive losses following a four-game winning streak.
The Clippers took control with a 27-4 run in the second quarter after a close 36-35 lead early on. Coffey particularly excelled during this period, notching nine of his 15 points.
Injury sidelined Jalen Johnson for the Hawks due to right shoulder soreness, while Bogdan Bogdanovic was also out for injury management.
The Clippers welcomed Terance Mann back to the lineup, with Mann posting 12 points in 16 minutes after missing 10 games due to a broken middle finger on his left hand.
A noteworthy moment occurred when Leonard sank a 3-pointer on his first shot from the left wing, tying the score at 5-all with 9:57 remaining in the first quarter. Despite the defense of Hawks rookie Zaccharie Risacher, Leonard managed to deliver the shot.
Statistically, James Harden’s 13 assists in the first half set a new record for a Clippers player before halftime dating back to 1996-97, as reported by Sportradar. Harden has achieved 14 assists in the first half twice over his 15-year career. Harden concluded the game with 10 points and 15 assists.
Looking ahead, the Hawks will face the Utah Jazz on Tuesday night, while the Clippers are scheduled to play against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday night.
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