The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Utah Jazz 118-104 at Staples Center on Monday and proved they will not let their championship dreams die without a fight. This big home win allowed them to even their Western Conference semifinal series at 2-2.
Star Kawhi Leonard lived up to expectations and was a key player in the win, contributing 31 points, three assists and seven rebounds.
The Clippers opened the night on a 13-4 run and became absolute masters of the game, showing that they are not the same team that lost the first two games of the series. Their great effectiveness allowed them to take the first quarter 30-13.
As the minutes passed, the Jazz gradually improved, but they were still unable to keep up with their rivals, who took the second quarter 38-31.
It would be unfair to say that Leonard was the only big man in the Clippers’ strategy, as Paul George also had a dream night, contributing 31 points, four assists and nine rebounds.
The Clippers started the second half more relaxed with a 68-44 lead, Utah Jazz took advantage and led the third quarter 26-29. Donovan Mitchell (37 points) was their best player.
The visitors continued to close the gap and took the final quarter 24-31, but that was not enough.
