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The San Antonio Spurs (14-32) proved they weren’t on a winning streak with a 131-126 loss to the LA Clippers (24-24) on Friday.
Using a 12-point lead in the second quarter, the Spurs were actually leading 72-65 at halftime. The Clippers capitalized on a strong performance in the third quarter and he took a 98-95 lead going into the final period to ultimately boost the win.
Kawhi Leonard led the Clippers with a season-high 36 points and continued to show why he is a truly elite player in the NBA. When it came time to promote the team, he did his job.
“He’s been great,” Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said. “He’s one of the best players in the league. We’re talking about the top of the list — he’s with them.
The Clippers have been struggling lately, losing 9 of their last 11 games. There is a sense from coach Tyronn Lue that a turning point may have been achieved with the team becoming healthier and playing their normal role.
“I felt it this morning,” Lou said. “I think having the staff back and everyone back in their roles will help us a lot. I am playing on the level.”
Leonard is working to return to his former form after returning from an ACL tear that kept him out for the entire 2021-22 season. The Spurs faced their best performance of the season.
“I feel a lot lighter and move a little better,” Leonard said. “I feel pretty good. I’ve played a few games in a row.”
Keldon Johnson led the Spurs with 23 points while shooting 9-16 from the floor and 3-7 from 3-point range. There was plenty of support offensively, with six of his other players achieving his double-digit numbers, but the Clippers scored 63.0% of him from the floor and 53.6% over the arc. Amazing shooting was too much to overcome.
The Spurs will face the Portland Trail Blazers at the Moda Center on Monday.
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