The Rockets remain the measure of all things and defeat the brave Timberwolves thanks to James Harden. The Trail Blazers also stay hot and continue their run against the Clippers.
The Rockets will end the Western Conference as leader of the standings – there is hardly any doubt about that after their latest away win against a playoff contender. Especially since the Wolves – whipped by a euphoric crowd – showed their best basketball at least in the final phase (just without Jimmy Butler).
Before, the Rockets were divided in their typical manner and even led with 25 points. Then, however, the hosts made a comeback and shortened to 5th in the final section. But then came James Harden’s time: In the last 6 minutes of the game alone, the beard put up 11 points, including the Dagger from downtown 58 seconds before the end, “We need such games”, he said afterwards, “It’s good for us to be challenged at the end of a game”.
The MVP candidate had collected 38 points and 12 assists after the final buzzer, Chris Paul sniffed a triple double with 18 points, 8 rebounds and 9 assists. The Wolves were scored by Jeff Teague (23 points, 11 assists), Karl-Anthony Towns (20, 18 rebounds), Andre Wiggins (20) and Jamal Crawford (20).
The Blazers remain the hottest team in the league – against the Clippers they already won 13th place. Victory in a row. This run comes at just the right time, of course, and since the Clippers defeated a playoff contender, Rip City’s 9th place lead is already 6 games. From an eight fight for the remaining 6 playoff places, a heptathlon has developed.
The decision in Tinseltown was made at the beginning of the third quarter. The guests already had a discreet lead before they made things even clearer with a 10-0 run. The clips didn’t give up afterwards, but always followed their opponent. He knew above all to convince by his balance, a dependence on Damian Lillard or C.J. McCollum was not observed.
Dame was still topscorer with 23 points, McCollum and Maurice Harkless came in 21. The Clippers were led by Lou Williams, who scored 30 points, Montrezl Harrell 24. The Starting Five was disappointing.
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