- Clippers outscore Hawks 35-8 in decisive third quarter
- Leonard sets season-high 5 steals with 25 points
- Harden contributes 25 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists
- Bogdanovic receives ovation in Atlanta return
- Hawks record season-low 8 points in third quarter
The Los Angeles Clippers delivered a masterclass in second-half adjustments during Friday's matchup against the Atlanta Hawks. After trailing by 8 points at halftime, the team unleashed a devastating 35-8 scoring run in the third quarter – the largest single-quarter margin in franchise history. This decisive surge turned a 61-53 deficit into an 88-69 lead, showcasing the Clippers' championship-caliber resilience.
Kawhi Leonard's two-way dominance proved critical, with the All-Star forward securing 25 points and a season-best 5 steals. His defensive intensity set the tone for Los Angeles' 19-0 run that broke the game open. James Harden complemented this performance with 25 points of his own, including 13 during the pivotal third quarter. The veteran guard neared a triple-double with 8 rebounds and 7 assists, demonstrating his playmaking versatility.
The Hawks struggled to maintain their first-half momentum, recording their lowest-scoring quarter of the season. While Onyeka Okongwu posted a double-double (18 points, 10 rebounds), Atlanta's backcourt combination of Trae Young and Dejounte Murray combined for just 29 points on 9-27 shooting. The team's 7 turnovers during the Clippers' 19-0 third-quarter run highlighted their offensive breakdowns.
Strategic Insight: Third-quarter performance has become a key indicator of NBA success. Teams winning the third period this season boast a 73% win rate, per league analytics. The Clippers' +27 differential in this frame demonstrates their ability to make halftime adjustments – a crucial factor for playoff contention.
Regional Analysis: This victory extends Los Angeles' dominance over Eastern Conference opponents, improving their cross-conference record to 15-5. Comparatively, the Lakers have gone 10-10 against East teams, illustrating the Clippers' stronger position in the competitive Western Conference playoff race.
Roster Dynamics: Bogdan Bogdanovic's emotional return to Atlanta (12 points) highlighted the Clippers' improved depth since February's trade deadline. The Serbian sharpshooter has increased LA's bench scoring by 18% since joining the rotation, providing crucial spacing for Leonard and Harden.
Injury Impact: Coach Tyronn Lue's return from a three-game absence (back soreness) proved timely. Under Lue's leadership this season, the Clippers have maintained a 62% win percentage compared to 45% when he's sidelined – underscoring his strategic value.
Looking Ahead: Both teams face critical Sunday matchups. The Clippers host Charlotte's 27th-ranked defense, while Atlanta visits Brooklyn's physical frontcourt. With 18 games remaining, Los Angeles (42-23) aims to secure home-court advantage, while the Hawks (29-36) fight to avoid the Play-In Tournament's lower bracket.