The Los Angeles Clippers narrowly escaped with a victory on Sunday night at the Intuit Dome thanks to a game-winning shot by Kawhi Leonard. Leonard’s buzzer-beater lifted the Clippers to a 111-110 overtime win over the Sacramento Kings in a thrilling matchup.
With the game tied in overtime, DeMar DeRozan briefly gave the Kings the lead with a pair of free throws. But Leonard took matters into his own hands, making a clutch left-handed shot as time expired to secure the win for the Clippers.
Despite shooting just 1-of-7 from behind the arc, Leonard contributed 17 points and four rebounds. Meanwhile, James Harden almost recorded a triple-double with 29 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds, and Ivica Zubac chipped in with 22 points and 14 rebounds.
The Clippers had to play without head coach Ty Lue, who left the game early due to back pain. Assistant coach Brian Shaw stepped up to lead the team in Lue’s absence.
On the Kings’ side, DeRozan led the team with 31 points and 10 assists, followed by Zach LaVine with 30 points. Despite their efforts, the Kings couldn’t secure the win, dropping their record to 33-30.
As the Clippers prepare for their upcoming road trip, the status of Lue’s return remains uncertain. The team will face the New Orleans Pelicans next on Tuesday, hoping to continue their success even without their head coach.