James Harden topped a major NBA milestone in his team’s win over the Warriors. He became the 24th NBA player to cross the 25,000-point mark as the Los Angeles Clippers clinched their sixth triumph over the Warriors, winning 121-113.
The Celtics too sealed a major victory with their twelfth consecutive home win as they triumphed over the Cavaliers 116-107. James Harden recorded 28 points, the highest for a season for him. He also had 7 rebounds and 15 assists as he became the 8th fastest NBA player to cross the magical mark. He made it past the landmark with his 1,018-career game.
James Harden needed just 20 points to surpass this milestone. He sprinted past that total and raised his game significantly, logging 42 minutes in the win. Coach Tyronn Lue told reporters that it was normal for James with Paul George out of the game. He raised his game accordingly.
James Harden’s Winning Performance Helped The Clippers Remain Eastern Conference Leaders
James Harden’s all-round game sealed a convincing victory for the Clippers, who remain the EC leaders. Teammate Kawhi Leonard chipped in with another 27 points with 8 rebounds. Powell added another 21 points while Amri Coffrey contributed 18 points, another season-high.
The Los Angeles team was missing Paul George. It was his first miss of the season after he injured his hip. The Warriors rued the absence of suspended Draymond Green. He is out indefinitely after his 3rd ejection of the season.
Klay Thompson was the highest scorer for the visitors with 30 points. But it was not adequate as the Warriors lost their away game for the 7th time in a row. The Warriors were behind by a single point at 103-102 with 9 minutes to go on the board. But James Harden and Powell took control while a ruthless Kawhi finally wrapped it up for the Los Angeles team.