Clippers 118-120 Jazz (Oct 27, 2023) Game Recap

SALT LAKE CITY — Jordan Clarkson’s clutch performance led the Utah Jazz to a victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday night. Clarkson made a go-ahead 3-pointer with 28 seconds remaining and followed it up with a crucial defensive stop against Kawhi Leonard. His defensive prowess was not something typically associated with him, but he stayed composed and didn’t fall for Leonard’s shot fakes and spins. Before that, Clarkson was looking to create a scoring opportunity for himself or Lauri Markkanen in a 2-for-1 possession situation. Ultimately, he took the shot confidently and knocked it down, contributing 13 points. Meanwhile, Markkanen had an impressive game with 35 points and 12 rebounds, and Kelly Olynyk delivered crucial back-to-back 3-pointers to help secure the win.

Paul George put up a strong performance for the Clippers, scoring 36 points and going a perfect 15 for 15 from the free-throw line. Leonard finished with 25 points, making his first appearance on the court against the Jazz since Game 2 of the 2021 Western Conference semifinals. Despite trailing by 14 points in the second quarter, the Clippers managed to mount a comeback. However, George acknowledged their struggle to overcome early deficits against tough opponents. Norman Powell played a significant role in the Clippers’ comeback, scoring 14 of his 20 points in the fourth quarter.

In the final moments of the game, the lead changed hands multiple times. George’s free throws gave the Clippers a one-point advantage, but Clarkson responded with a tough 3-pointer. Leonard missed his 3-point attempt with Clarkson applying defensive pressure, and the game ended with Russell Westbrook’s unsuccessful rebound attempt at the buzzer.

Utah coach Will Hardy described the win as “really gritty” and emphasized the team’s determination and effort. The Clippers have struggled in regular-season games in Utah, losing their last 12 matchups in Salt Lake City. Clippers coach Ty Lue attributed the loss to the Jazz’s strong movement throughout the game, as well as their 17 offensive rebounds leading to 33 second-chance points.

The Jazz dominated the second quarter, hitting five consecutive 3-pointers in a 15-4 run. They finished the game with 16 successful 3-point shots, a significant improvement compared to their season-opening loss to the Sacramento Kings where they only made nine. Markkanen expressed relief and joy after the victory, calling it a “really big win” and ending the nightmares of going winless in all 82 games.

Next up, the Clippers will host the San Antonio Spurs, while the Jazz will face the Phoenix Suns on the road.

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AP NBA: https://www.apnews.com/hub/NBA