Clippers Boost Play-In Spot Chances with Big Win Over Bucks

Clippers Defeat Bucks 129-96, Leonard Shines

Kawhi Leonard delivered an impressive performance with 28 points in just 25 minutes as the Los Angeles Clippers dominated the Milwaukee Bucks 129-96 on Monday night. This victory marks a significant turnaround for the Clippers, coming on the heels of four consecutive losses.

Brook Lopez contributed 19 points for the Bucks, while Darius Garland added 15 points and six assists. The Clippers are now back at .500 with a record of 30-30, a remarkable recovery from a dismal 6-21 start to the season on December 18. Their performance at the free-throw line was flawless, hitting all 18 attempts.

The Bucks’ Gary Trent Jr. led the bench with 20 points, and Ryan Rollins was the top scorer among the starters with 13 points. Despite having five players in double figures, Milwaukee has struggled recently, losing 10 of their last 14 games, including three of four since superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has been sidelined with a left knee injury.

The Clippers excelled from beyond the arc, making 17 of 38 three-point attempts (45%). The Bucks, conversely, finished at 39% (16 for 41), with their late-game scoring not enough to impact the outcome. In a blistering second quarter, the Clippers scored 43 points, highlighted by a seven-for-12 shooting stretch from deep.

The onslaught continued into the second half, with the Clippers stretching their lead to 46 points. Lopez, standing 7 feet 1 inch, displayed his range by sinking four of five three-point attempts in the third quarter.

Leonard, who did not play in the fourth quarter, overcame a slow start to shoot eight of 18 from the field and convert nine free throws, scoring 16 points in the pivotal second quarter. In his 14th NBA season, Leonard is averaging a career-high 28.3 points per game, positioning the Clippers for a potential play-in tournament berth.