Kawhi Leonard Leads Clippers Past Trail Blazers Amid Billups’ Scandal
It was quite a night in Inglewood as the Los Angeles Clippers pulled off a solid 114-107 win over the Portland Trail Blazers — and it wasn’t just another game. This matchup carried extra weight because it came during a turbulent week for Portland, whose head coach Chauncey Billups had just been arrested on gambling-related charges.
Kawhi Leonard was at his best again, putting up 30 points and grabbing 10 rebounds to lead the Clippers to victory. His calm, methodical play seemed to set the tone for Los Angeles, especially when the team needed composure after a shaky first half. Down by five at the break, the Clippers stormed back in the third quarter, outscoring Portland 32-22 to take control of the game. Leonard, James Harden, and Ivica Zubac each chipped in nine points during that stretch, showing how balanced and efficient the team can be when everyone’s locked in.
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Zubac had a strong night too, finishing with 21 points and eight rebounds. Harden, who continues to serve as the team’s offensive engine, added 20 points and 13 assists — though his seven turnovers reminded everyone that he’s still working on chemistry with the rest of the roster. John Collins contributed 16 points off the bench, helping the Clippers improve to 2-1 on the season after a rough opening loss in Utah.
Since 2019, the Clippers have absolutely dominated Portland, with a record of 19 wins and just two losses. But this game was different — not because of the score, but because of the cloud hanging over the Trail Blazers organization. Billups’ arrest, along with Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, came after federal investigators linked both to a gambling conspiracy involving rigged high-stakes card games. Following the arrest, the NBA quickly placed both men on administrative leave. Assistant coach Tiago Splitter has stepped in as Portland’s interim head coach.
Despite the distraction, Portland fought hard. Deni Avdija led the Blazers with 23 points, while Jrue Holiday added 21. Shaedon Sharpe and Jerami Grant chipped in 19 and 17 respectively, but the team couldn’t keep up with the Clippers’ momentum in the second half.
The Trail Blazers will have little time to regroup — they’re set to face the Los Angeles Lakers next, while the Clippers hit the road to meet the Golden State Warriors.
All in all, this game wasn’t just about the scoreline. It was a showcase of Kawhi Leonard’s steady leadership and focus, qualities that seem even more valuable in a league where off-court distractions can easily derail a team’s rhythm.
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