In a display of pure offensive power, James Harden led the LA Clippers to a dominant victory over the Charlotte Hornets with a historic performance.
Harden Sets Record with 55 Points
Harden, hitting 10 three-pointers, scored an amazing 55 points, setting a new scoring record for the Clippers.
This feat marks Harden’s 25th game of 50 or more points in his career, tying him with Kobe Bryant for third place in NBA history in this category.
Ivica Zubac contributed 18 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists, helping the Clippers break a three-game losing streak.
Harden, showcasing his exceptional skill, scored 27 points in the first quarter with five three-pointers, propelling the Clippers to a significant lead in the first half.
Kon Knueppel led the Hornets with 26 points, while Brandon Miller returned from a shoulder injury and scored 21 points.
The game changed course when LaMelo Ball had to leave the game due to his fourth foul.
With the Hornets’ Ryan Kalkbrenner out of the game with an ankle injury, the Clippers took advantage of Zubac’s size advantage over Moussa Diabate in the third quarter.
The culminating moment arrived when Harden scored his eighth three-pointer on a step-back shot over two defenders, earning a foul and completing a 4-point play.
Harden’s 55-point performance is the eleventh highest of his career and ties him with Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for the highest of the season.
