Earlier than the Clippers even performed their “very vital” recreation in opposition to the Sacramento Kings on Sunday, that they had to take action with out the person who has hold their workforce so as — Tyronn Lue.
Lue, who spoke to reporters earlier than the sport about how significant the competition can be, ended up not teaching in it after going dwelling with again ache. That left Clippers assistant coach Brian Shaw in cost.
The sport was a thriller, with Kawhi Leonard scoring on a left-handed shot as time expired to provide the Clippers an necessary 111-110 win on the Intuit Dome that retains them in eighth place within the topsy-turvy Western Convention.
Leonard, who was wrapped up in celebration by his teammates after his successful shot, completed with 17 factors and 4 rebounds for the Clippers (35-29). James Harden had 29 factors, 9 rebounds and 11 assists, and Ivica Zubac had 22 factors and 14 rebounds.
DeMar DeRozan led the Kings (33-30) with 31 factors, 10 assists and 7 rebounds.
The Clippers play their subsequent three video games on the street in opposition to New Orleans, Miami and Atlanta.
