Imagine a basketball game where a single quarter completely flips the script, turning a tight contest into a dominant performance. That's exactly what happened when the Los Angeles Clippers faced the Portland Trail Blazers on December 26, 2025, in a matchup that showcased both individual brilliance and strategic teamwork. But here's where it gets controversial... Was it James Harden's 34-point outburst or Brook Lopez's career-high nine 3-pointers that truly sealed the deal for the Clippers? Let's dive in.
In a thrilling display of offensive firepower, the Clippers secured a 119-103 victory over the Trail Blazers, marking their third consecutive win. The game, held in Portland, Oregon, was a tale of two halves. The Clippers, led by Harden and Lopez, outscored the Blazers 63-41 in the second half, turning a close game into a decisive win. And this is the part most people miss... It wasn't just about the stars; it was the team's ability to capitalize on key moments, like a 19-1 run in the third quarter, that made the difference.
Kawhi Leonard played a pivotal role, contributing 28 points, eight rebounds, and six assists, with 18 of those points coming in the fourth quarter. His ferocious dunk over Donovan Clingan was a highlight that energized the Clippers' bench and the crowd alike. On the Blazers' side, Deni Avdija stood out with 27 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists, proving he's a force to be reckoned with.
The turning point came late in the third quarter. After Clingan's free throw gave the Blazers a 71-59 lead, their largest of the game, the Clippers responded with relentless precision. Lopez's seventh 3-pointer narrowed the gap, and a technical foul on acting Blazers coach Tiago Splitter allowed Leonard to further close the deficit. Harden's clutch free throws and a driving layup tied the game at 72, setting the stage for the Clippers' takeover.
Lopez's eighth and ninth 3-pointers gave the Clippers their first lead, and Harden's four-point play with 1:06 left in the third quarter extended it to 85-77. The Clippers never looked back, even surviving a late push from Avdija, who cut their lead to seven before a six-point possession put the game out of reach.
Earlier, the Blazers had shown promise, going on a 9-0 run in the second quarter, capped by Shaedon Sharpe's fast-break dunk, to lead 61-50. However, the Clippers quickly regrouped, with Harden and Kobe Sanders leading a charge that cut the lead to 62-56 by halftime.
Here's a thought-provoking question for you... Could the Blazers have maintained their lead if not for the Clippers' explosive third quarter? Or was this simply a case of LA's depth and experience shining through? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Looking ahead, the Clippers will host the Detroit Pistons on Sunday night, aiming to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, the Blazers will face the Boston Celtics at home, seeking to bounce back from this tough loss. Will the Clippers continue their dominance, or will the Pistons pull off an upset? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for more NBA action!
