James Harden leads Clippers to 5th straight win against Raptors

The Los Angeles Clippers continue their impressive climb up the standings with a fifth consecutive victory, snatched in overtime against the Toronto Raptors (121-117). James Harden was the architect of this success with a complete performance of 31 points and 10 assists.

A spectacular finish orchestrated by Harden

Trailing 109-101 with 3 minutes 35 seconds left in regulation, the Clippers seemed doomed. But that was without counting on James Harden, who took over the game with a personal 8-0 run to force overtime. The former MVP then set the tone in overtime by converting four consecutive free throws.

Despite difficult 3-point statistics (2/15), Harden found other ways to impact the game, finishing 10/27 from the field and 9/10 from the free-throw line. His ability to elevate his game in crucial moments was once again illustrated with a decisive jumper after Scottie Barnes brought Toronto within one point.

A Clippers collective firing on all cylinders

Beyond Harden’s performance, the Clippers could count on a solid collective effort. Jordan Miller contributed 19 points, while Ivica Zubac, back after missing the previous game with a left ankle sprain, recorded a double-double with 16 points and 14 rebounds. Cam Christie (16 points) and Kris Dunn (15 points) also contributed to this victory.

This win brings the Clippers’ record to 12 wins in 14 games since their catastrophic start to the season (6-21). The California team is beginning to show a more appealing face, even on the road where they now post a 7-14 record.

On Toronto’s side, Scottie Barnes led the charge with 24 points, supported by Brandon Ingram (19 points) and Jamal Shead who posted his career-best performance with 15 points and 13 assists. The Raptors, without Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett, suffered their second loss in 21 games after leading for three quarters, a statistic that reflects their difficulty closing out tight games.