The Los Angeles Clippers continued their impressive run in the NBA with a hard-fought 112-104 victory over their city rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, on Friday, January 23, 2026, at the arena in Inglewood, California. This win marks another significant step in the Clippers' surge, showcasing their depth and resilience as they solidify their position in the league standings.
Key Performances Drive Clippers' Success
Kawhi Leonard led the charge for the Clippers, delivering a stellar performance with 24 points, demonstrating his offensive prowess and leadership on the court. Complementing his efforts, Ivica Zubac dominated the paint with a powerful double-double, contributing 18 points and an impressive 19 rebounds. This dynamic duo set the tone early, allowing the Clippers to control the game's tempo and momentum.
Supporting Cast Steps Up
James Harden played a crucial role, chipping in 18 points and dishing out 10 assists, facilitating the offense and keeping the Lakers' defense on their heels. Jordan Miller added 14 points, while John Collins contributed 13 points, highlighting the team's balanced scoring attack. This collective effort underscores the Clippers' depth, with multiple players stepping up to secure the win.
Game Highlights and Turning Points
The Clippers built a commanding lead, stretching it to as much as 24 points in the second half, thanks to their aggressive defense and efficient shooting. However, the Lakers mounted a late rally, testing the Clippers' composure. Despite this push, the Clippers held firm, withstanding the pressure to notch their ninth win in the past 10 home games, a testament to their strong home-court advantage.
Lakers' Efforts Fall Short
On the Lakers' side, Luka Doncic put up a valiant effort, leading his team with 32 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists, showcasing his all-around skills. LeBron James added 23 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Clippers' onslaught. Rui Hachimura finished with 12 points, as the Lakers struggled to find consistency, slipping to a 3-6 record since January 7 and moving to 1-1 on their ongoing eight-game road trip.
Broader Implications for the Season
This victory extends the Clippers' hot streak to 14-3 since December 20, a surge that began with a home win against the same Lakers. It reinforces their status as a formidable contender in the NBA, with key players like Leonard and Zubac hitting their stride at a crucial point in the season. For the Lakers, this loss highlights ongoing challenges as they navigate a tough road schedule and seek to improve their performance in upcoming games.
