Durant scored 22 points, Leonard contributed 41 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists, Harden added 29 points, as the Clippers convincingly defeated the Rockets to avenge their loss.

On December 24, in the 25-26 NBA regular season, the Clippers triumphed over the Rockets 128-108, securing their revenge. Leonard put up a personal season-best with 41 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists.

Game Progress

At the start of the first quarter, Durant was hot, scoring repeatedly with drives and outside shots. Clippers star Leonard promptly answered back; when Leonard drove and made a layup, the score stood at 11-13. Then, Smith hit consecutive three-pointers, leading the Rockets on a scoring run that gave them an 8-point lead. The Clippers quickly launched a counterattack, and when Harden nailed a buzzer-beating three-pointer at the end of the quarter, the Clippers trailed 29-35 by 6 points. In the second quarter, the Clippers hit several three-pointers in a row. After Harden scored on a strong drive plus a foul (and-one), the score was tied at 49-49. For a period, both teams exchanged points through jump shots and fast breaks. Towards the end of the quarter, the Rockets’ offense stalled, and the Clippers capitalized with a 5-0 run. At halftime, the Clippers led the Rockets 63-58 by 5 points.

After the break, the Rockets scored continuously through jump shots and free throws, but the Clippers maintained their scoring pace. When Harden was fouled and made all three free throws, the Clippers extended their lead to 10 points. Durant and Shengjing each made shots, but the Clippers responded with Leonard and Collins hitting consecutive three-pointers, sparking a scoring surge that pushed their lead to 15 points. The Rockets attempted another comeback, but the Clippers held firm. After three quarters, the Clippers were ahead by 16 points. In the final quarter, the Rockets launched a fresh rally, but Sanders hit several three-pointers in a row and Leonard kept scoring, helping the Clippers expand their lead to 22 points. With the large deficit and little time left, the outcome was decided, and the Clippers comfortably secured the victory.

Starting Lineups

Rockets: Durant, Shengjing, Smith, Amen, Okogie

Clippers: Leonard, Harden, Dunn, Collins, Lopez