Eager to revive after two defeats in a row, the Clippers were able to repel the attacks of Kyle Kuzma and Kristaps Porzingis to win a precious victory in Washington (114-107). Paul George and Nicolas Batum will have been decisive.
For the box score of this match, it’s right here.
Not so easy this road trip for the Clippers! After a difficult victory in Charlotte, the proteges of Tyronn Lue stumbled on both the Magic and the Heat, two teams which do not yet breathe serenity. It was therefore necessary a start this night in Washington. Good news, the team could count on its two leaders, Paul George and Kawhi Leonard. Another headliner in the five, a John Wall who celebrates his first tenure of the season for his time at DC, quite a symbol. The All-Star point guard received a tribute from his former franchise, with the small standing ovation that goes with it.
DC ???? John Wall
The former Wizard received a standing ovation in his return to DC.
(via @NBA) pic.twitter.com/EKeXOXzh9i
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) December 11, 2022
The little tear of nostalgia dried up, it’s time to get to the heart of the matter and Kyle Kuzma quickly clarifies things: Jean Mur’s return home will not be a walk in the park. Totally on fire in the first half, the Kuz’ is simply unplayable. He is already at 25 points at the break! Despite a failed start, the Clippers are totally in the game. Paul George warms up nicely, Wall offers himself a good series and begins to swing “it’s my city” to the public who get caught up in the game. Porzingis sounds the charge for Washington, PG (him again) and Marcus Morris him respond and put LA back in front, we have a real money time looming ahead of us.
It responds tit for tat, no one wants to let go and then a certain Nicolas Batum comes out of his box. Author of 3 award-winning baskets in the last five minutes, the captain of the Blues will especially put the shot of the evening 25 seconds from the end to put Washington at -3, thanks to a good shift from Kawhi Leonard. A big shot like our national Batman likes to take them.
BATUM BATTALION ????????@nicolas88batum | @LAClippers | #ClipperNation pic.twitter.com/cxeYqvFdcZ
— Bally Sports West (@BallySportWest) December 11, 2022
Once again, Nico will have played his role of factor X. The defense, the fighting spirit, the shots that go well at the right time to support a Paul George who will have been stratospheric let’s say it: 36 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists and 3 steals for the co-leader of the Clipperswho will finish the job on the throw line after a final miss from Porzingis.
Victory to the courage of the Angelinos, who find colors before receiving the ogre Boston this Monday at the Crypto.com Arena.