Clippers get back on track with big win against Jazz

INGLEWOOD, Calif. - The Clippers needed a win like they had on Saturday night at Intuit Dome. After 3 tumultuous games and 2 losses in a row, the Clippers defeated the Jazz 130-110 in front of 15,892 fans at Intuit Dome. 

Every starter was in double figures in points, but the “Big Three” of Norman Powell, James Harden and Ivica Zubac combined for 75 points to lead the Clippers to victory. 

Let’s start with Harden, who put up a season-high assist total with 17 to go along with 23 points, including some clutch buckets in the 4th quarter. 

In the first half, it was a grind for the Clippers against a depleted Utah Jazz team that was playing on the second night of a back-to-back. 

Then, that 75 points trio took over. Ivica Zubac, who played through what looked like a minor knee issue, dominated the Jazz. 

He finished with 26 points and 15 rebounds in a monster effort, after an 18 point and 13 rebound performance against the Pacers where it looked like he should have had more touches. 

Norman Powell was his efficient self once again, tallying 26 points of his own on 9-18 shooting. 

But, it was another subpar Kawhi game, as Leonard only had 10 points to go along with 5 turnovers. He did reach the 31 minute threshold but it is very odd to see Leonard make multiple mental mistakes. 

His lift looks fine, he can still get up for dunks, but the mental sharpness has not been elite like he is known for at this point. 

In my opinion, that is a good sign. Kawhi can always be smarter and more methodical, but if there was a physical issue, that would be much more of a concern. 

Amir Coffey was also in double figures, with 17 points off the bench on 5-8 from three. 

With the additions of Bogdan Bogdanović and Ben Simmons still pending, the Clippers were going with a younger and less experienced second unit and Coffey was excellent in his role once again. 

MarJon Beauchamp played 2 minutes and hit his first basket as a Clipper with a 3-pointer after being traded for Kevin Porter Jr. 

Now, the Clippers get some much needed time off, before playing the Memphis Grizzlies next Wednesday. Tipoff is set for 7:30 PM PST.