NBA LIVE! Los Angeles Lakers vs Los Angeles Clippers | December 20, 2025 | Lakers vs Clippers 2K26

NBA LIVE! Los Angeles Lakers vs Los Angeles Clippers | December 20, 2025 | Lakers vs Clippers 2K26

All yours. >> Thanks very much. >> That’s pretty intriguing, Da. That’s an interesting story and we thank you for giving it to us. And now the Lakers starting group. They’ve got LeBron James. He’s out there with Ruie Henon is out there with Luca Don and it’s Reeves in at the two spot. And for the Clippers, John Collins is out there with Kawhi Leonard. Then it’s Izza Zubox. And there’s Bradley Beal. And it’s Harden in at the point. And Greg, something to keep an eye on in this one. The big man. Both these teams have talented front courts. >> You’re exactly right. Both rely on their bigs. And the winner of the game is probably going to be the team that wins that front court matchup. >> Now Leonard after Luca Donic’s three-pointer that didn’t go over Eightton. Leonard. No luck. >> Here’s Reeves >> over to the left wing and a wide open look for Himura. Will not go. This is off the front iron. Pass to Leonard. Lays it up and in off the pretty assist. Leonard’s got five minutes. >> This is the area of greatest improvement in Mr. Bradley Beal’s game. How about the growth in his passing? Wow. >> And that was the mobile one drive. Well worth a second look. >> It’s all about the ability to get two feet in the paint. Whether it’s creating for a teammate or for yourself. >> Now here’s Donic. Faster to Reeves. Pocket six. And again, no good by the Lakers. Harden against Donic. >> Harden the pass to Leonard. >> Back to Harden. >> One up, one down, two points with his first shot this game. >> Well, James Harden has made a living out of tough shot making. And I’ll tell you, the defense pretty good right there. James Harden just better. >> And the Lakers decide to take their first time out here. Greg, here’s a classic NBA question. Who’s been the best franchise in league history? Celtics or the Lakers? Come on, Kevin. You are putting me on the spot. But I’d go with the Lakers. More superstars over the years. And I think that 2000’s run with Kobe and company that put them ahead in my estimation. Heat. Heat. ABC’s checked in for James. We’re just about 2 minutes into the first quarter. >> Anj passes to Reeves and out of bounds as the Clippers gain possession. Now here’s Beal. Tight defense on him. >> Pass to Leonard. 11 ft away. His second miss. Now two of four on the game. Here’s Hatchima. No good again that time. Clippers have gone three of five shooting the ball so far. Bo can’t get it to go. >> Lakers trail by seven. >> And there’s the pass to Reeves. >> Here’s ABC. He’s covered by Beal. Shot clock at five. And there’s the call on John Collins. That’s his first foul. >> I mean, that’s a tough break for the D. I mean, he took the hit and drew the whistle. >> Reeves the pass to ABC. The feed to Eightton. >> Stolen by Collins. >> It’s an awkward pass to try to make on the interior. >> Harden dishes to Villa. >> Leonard with the ball and Hatchima picks him up defensively. Here’s Reeves. >> I mean, even from over here, you can see that one pretty clearly. for the Clippers organization, GA, what do you think the goal is? Well, it it’s clear to me, Kevin, get to the NBA finals. The Clippers have never made it there, and I think a trip to the finals is within reach of this group. They just need to stay healthy. Heat. Heat. And he makes the First, >> Doris, it’s been great to see the Clippers rise to prominence over the last 10 years, hadn’t it? >> Yeah. I mean, listen, this was an organization that spent years in futility, but you have to admire the transformation that has led to consistent success. They used to be a franchise that made the playoffs maybe once in a decade. Now, you expect them to contend in the West. Heat. Heat. Heat up here. And so he makes both from the line. >> And this Lakers squad has a ton of talent, but some guys are well past their prime. >> And so it’s Beal. He’ll bring it up for the Los Angeles Clippers. Outside Leonard >> from Deep Harden >> and it’s Aton with the rebound. And what do you think GA is the next step for this Lakers team? >> Coming off a championship not that long ago, young firepower is surely needed. These older guys can’t carry a team like they used to. >> Now here’s Beal still getting warmed up offensively. No scoring hit from him. And the Clippers miss again. >> Maybe he rushes that just a little bit. Who knows? But he couldn’t have gotten a better look than that. Dashic finds eight. >> Passes it to Reeves. Six on the shot clock. It’s not going to go for him. And the Clippers will go the other away with it >> on the wing. Harden shoots. Count it. His second make in four attempts. Well, the mechanics of James Harden’s shooting are just so defined and on point. He gets the ball and he’s ready to shoot right away. >> Now, here’s Donic. >> And looks like the illegal pick was set. Yep, that’s right. That’ll get their attention. >> When a pick like that is questionable and creates that much of an advantage for the offense, you have to blow the whistle. >> I don’t think there’s any question. There are so many rules that favor the offense these days. You’ve got to be able to equal things out when an illegal screen is set. >> And the dunk by Zubox. There it is, guys. One of those effort plays that makes a big difference in the game. >> And GA, it is definitely making a difference so far today. >> No doubt. On the scoreboard, in the body language of the players, you can tell which team is in complete command. Now here is Hiimura. No points and the game hit for him. Eightton fouled on the shot and picks up two points. So one free throw coming up. >> This guy a relentless force on the glass. DeAndre Aton going to work and getting the put back. >> Young big men though often struggle to find consistency. But you look at Aiden’s first four seasons, the numbers are almost identical year to year. free throw drops for Eightton. And for Aton, the numbers are impressive indeed, averaging a double double every season. >> And he’s got all the tools, next steps, making more plays for others. And they’ve been working on his shooting range to open up the lane a bit more. >> And Leonard gets it to go. >> Well, he’s got size and he has touch. It makes interior scoring easy for Kawhi Leonard. >> Anj passes to Reeves. Here’s ABC. >> Pass to Eightton. >> Over to the wing. Reeves gets the bucket. Reeves has got five points so far. >> Well, DeAndre Aton is a team first guy and boy does he set up the open man. >> Mr. Collins. >> Clippers moving the ball around. Hardened outside. >> Here’s Zubox. Lakers with the rebound. Eightton’s got four rebounds in this game. >> Reeves the pass to Hatchima. >> Nonic. Bounce pass. The Lakers need to get a shot off here. >> Here’s Eightton. Second chance effort. >> Good work there as it goes. >> Well, you love the focus from a young big man, DeAndre Aton. The hoop and the harm there. Nicely done. >> What do you guys think so far about the offensive approach for the Clippers? I I like how they’ve worked the ball inside, getting looks closer in there, and that really helps your offense. And >> the other thing I love, how they’re making the extra pass. They’re not settling for the first shot. They’re going from good to great. >> Free throw no good for Eightton. I think what you like most about DeAndre Aton is probably how efficient he is on the offensive end. Now, obviously the next step, he’s got to raise his game and defensive intensity on that end of the floor. >> The put back, it’s good on the putback. >> Yeah, just a fantastic job to stay with the play and just not give up. Excellent effort on the offensive backboard >> and the Clippers decide to take their first timeout here and momentum going the other way. Can Can they find some answers? >> I think here you have just got to get back to what you do best and then live with the results. Heat. Heat. Heat. as Dun check in for the Clippers. Acres on D. >> They trail by one. >> And here is Paul. Shot clock at six. Get >> the done. >> Let’s go. Offensive struggles continue missing again. >> You You almost have to assume he’s going to knock those down when he is that open. If you give him an inch of space, he’s going to make you pay. >> The Clippers shooting just about an even% to start. >> Call passes to Collins. It’s Bdonovic on the wing and he lays it straight in and the Clippers lead by one. A big man who does a little bit of everything. Collins keen first attitude shining through with that terrific pass. >> Now here’s Smart. Nothing yet on the scoreboard for him. Hayes trying to break through. >> That pass was about the location. puts it perfectly into the hands of his teammate. >> And it’s time for an injury report. >> Now, an update on LeBron from David Aldridge. What’d you find out, David? >> Thanks, Kevin. I got some news from the Lakers head athletic trainer. He said that he does have a broken nose. It’s definitely a painful injury, but not a worst case scenario. >> All right, David. Thanks. Well, guys, certainly not the news his fans were hoping for. >> Yeah, not at all. I mean, it sounds like he’s got a long road ahead of him in terms of his recovery >> and our hearts go out to him and the guy works so hard. His teammates love him, coaches love him. He’s going to be missed >> again. The Lakers. >> Yeah, there’s no quitting this guy. He just gives you great effort and he continues to give you great production, >> guys. They’re looking for a way to score here. Yeah, they’ve had a tough time taking the lid off. Now here’s Smart following the miss shot by Boon Banovich. Out of bounds, the Clippers take possession. Derek Jones, he’s checked in for John Collins. James checked in for the Lakers. Clippers trail by five. Al Paul over smart and again no good by the Clippers and man is this team on a roll right now offensively Greg so fun to watch. >> They’re playing with so much confidence which is why they’re tearing it up on this end. >> And the Clippers call time here >> trying to snap them out of this little slump. Just feels like the basket is looking awfully small to them right now. They’re having a hard time getting anything to fall. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. over in the corner. Paul >> the pass to Lopez and they get it. Connects. The jumper drops. Don’t you love watching Brook Lopez get to that mid-range, stretch the floor with his shooting ability? Really good stuff. >> This is it for Smart Lakers looking the ball around now. >> Danovic against Hatchim. Five on the clock. Smart wide open. He fires. Misses the baby hook. ball outside >> inside and it’s denied. LeBron against Jones. James kicks to Hatchima. Pass to Smart out to the wing. takes a three. His fourth shot, his fourth miss. Still looking for his touch tonight. Passed to Bodonovic. Good work defensively by Hatchima. Here are the Lakers with the ball. They’re on a 20-6 run. >> And contact on the shot. So, he’ll be shooting free throws here. >> Chris picks one up. It’s early in Rui Hatimura’s career, but this young man has proven capable on the interior. He will never shy away from contact. >> He misses the free throw. Ruy Hachimura, a guy who’s willing to slot into whatever position the team needs him and works hard to help out on every single play. You’ll love the hustle and the attitude. and the second free throw. Good. >> There’s 47 seconds left to play in the first quarter. Some tough offensive sets. They want to turn it around. >> Yeah, right now you just need a bucket to get some momentum. >> Now here’s Bodanovic. done outside. His three-pointers off the mark. Lakers leading by six >> on the pass to Reeves. Here’s LeBron. Here’s Hayes. And a good offensive board. And he gets the bucket. >> Second chance points always hurt. Just not enough effort to block out. No doubt those extra possessions can really add up against you when you do not take care of the defensive glass. >> And so it’s the Los Angeles Lakers in the driver’s seat up eight points at the end of the quarter. Defensively they have gotten after it contesting every shot going up. We’ll take a quick break and then back to the action here. And for those of you just tuning in, the second quarter of action is where we’re at right now. And now we’ll get a perspective here on how the hustle game has been going for the Lakers. a a huge part of their offense, pushing the ball, looking for fast break opportunities. Always a good idea. >> You’ve also got to love the way they’ve been crashing the offensive glass. Multiple opportunities, not giving up on possessions. Beautiful >> teams nowadays tracking deflections in addition to steals. Were they something you were aware of when you played defense? Great. even if they weren’t tracked, uh, they were valued and and I remember early in my career that was something with the Knicks that would always emphasize cuz deflections were a true indicator of activity, especially defensively. I Zubox is out there with John Collins. Then there’s Kawi Leonard. Then it’s Harden and it’s Beal in at the shooting guard position. So that’s the lineup on the floor for the Clippers. >> And that rejection had some mustard on it. Huge, huge play. >> Sharp instincts on D there. Just timing when to rise up and swat that one away. >> Vanderbilts checked in for the Lakers. >> Clippers trail by eight. >> Outside Beal back to Harden the three. No good. That puts him at two for six. >> And on an open look like that, he’s very gifted at making the weak coverage pay. >> Smart passes to Donic. Here’s ABC. >> Hooked away. Stolen by Collins. And here comes Harden leading the fast break. And Leonard gets it to go. >> Well, Kawhi Leonard pure from the corner. Nice delivery. Kawawaii. >> Passes it to ABC. >> Front pass the arc and it’s the Clippers with the rebound. >> Smart against Beal. >> Over Smart. >> The shot by Beal. No good. Lakers leading by five. >> Oh, and there was the alleyoop. >> Vanderville misses. The Clippers have gone one of three to start out the second quarter and finished off by Collins. I’m sure his teammates love having a guy like Collins on the receiving end of those alleys. As fun an assist as you’ll get. Now here’s Smart. He’s been quiet so far. Still no points in the game and the rejection by Collins. And that shows you a bit of Collins’s allaround game and why he’s so valuable at both ends of the floor. And I like the fact that the defense is looking to protect the rim at all costs. First trip to the free throw line for him in this one. Take a break. Take a break. Two shots. >> No good on that one. Go. >> And the Lakers making a change here. Eightton’s checked in. >> Second free throw. No good. Lakers leading. by three. Here’s Smart. Doesn’t go that time. Great D that time from Beal. >> Boy, that’s one he wishes he could have back, especially against soft defense. >> The defense ready for him on that possession. They had to be cuz he is so strong in the paint. >> On the wing, Don. >> Pass to Aton. And he converts the layup. Eightton’s got nine. >> Don’t let DeAndre Aton get comfortable. This guy is a problem on the interior. >> And two bots to top the key. >> Beal deciding where to go with it >> over Smart. And that one hits back iron. Enzo Donic will bring it up for the Lakers. They’ve only allowed five points in the quarter. The Lakers have shot 67% on the line tonight going for a six. And they shot their free throws at a measly 73% clip over the course of last season. The first free throw is good. both good from the line that time. >> Clippers trail by seven. They need a good offensive possession. >> Yeah, they’ve gone a long time without a bucket. >> Harden finds Beal, >> fires for three. Here’s Zubox and foul on the shot. So, he’ll get a chance at the line. He’s 0 of two at the line in this one. Take a break. Take a break. Two shots. First free throw is good. >> And both free throws good for Zubox. And the Lakers call time here. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. And here in the second quarter of action as we approach four minutes played. Here’s Donic. Pass to Vanderbilt. Good. And the assist goes to Donic. >> Well, Luca Donuch has an innate sense for when his teammates are open. And boy does he deliver it. >> And you watch the way Donic runs this offense. He’s become a master at the pick and roll. Incredible to see someone run it to perfection. >> Now Donic. James Harden missing on the three. Eighton finds Smart. Offensive rebound and the rejection by Zubox. Left side Leonard and Kawi Leonard with the slam. >> Well, a multipletime winner of finals MVP. Kawi Leonard understands I’ve got my offensive game in rhythm. Let me go to work. >> ABC passes to Vanderbilt. Here’s ABC loose and out of bounds as the Clippers gain possession. And with Donic in the pick and roll game, he’s so good at such a young age. >> It’s amazing how well he reads the defense, but he can also freeze the defender or create confusion with that hesitation. He has all the tricks to run it. Now, here’s Leonard. He’s got 12. Knocks it loose. >> Stolen by Smart. >> Now, the best to ABC. And here is Donic. Here’s Eightton. >> And oh boy, a lot of contact there, but he gets the call and will shoot two. >> DeAndre Aton, a quality free throw shooter. So you love to see him create opportunities to get there. >> He’s made one and miss one so far in the game. First one falls He hits one, then misses the second attempt from the free throw line. >> And it’s Leonard with the ball. bring it up for the Clippers. >> He gets that one. >> Leonard’s got seven now in this quarter. But Kawhi Leonard’s strength through contact. One of the real problems you’ve got to deal with as a defender. >> That was the 2K drive as that move deserved another look. >> And you got to love the aggression that he had taking it to the rim there. Sets the tone in a close game like this one. Eighton Good. And Smart gets the assist. Eighton’s got 12 points in the game. >> Oh, don’t you love how unselfish Marcus Smart is? Sees the open man. Whips the pass over in just the right amount of space. >> Now, here’s Beal. He’s gotten some minutes, but nothing on the board yet. I’ll bet even they didn’t think the pick would work that well. >> No, no, no. And they get the major league dunk out of it, too. And my question is where was the help? Someone rotate over and challenge. >> And the Lakers call time here. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. on defense. The Clippers four-point game. >> Passes to Donic. >> Popped up there for Himura. >> Up high to stuff the alleyoop. Well, this is big time wingspan and solid leaping ability. Hachimura, boy, what an option as an alleyoop target. >> Outside Beal back to Harden. There’s the triple. That’s good. And so Beal with the assist. Beal’s got five assists in the game. An passes to Reeves. Here’s Hatchima. Pass to Vanderbilt. >> Leonard against Hatchima. Just four to shoot. Got a piece of it. Stolen by Collins. Out of bounds. The Lakers will take possession. Brook Lopez is checked in for the Clippers. Paul comes in for Beal. And the Lakers also making a change. James is checked in. Lakers leading by three. >> Himura the pass to Reeves. Back to Himura. Here’s James. Two free throws coming up and they call the shooting foul. That one on Collins. >> Yeah, whacking James like the D does there is the right move. I mean, especially when you consider how strong he is. The Lakers have made seven free throws and missed three in this game. A free throw drops for James. Hard to believe, Greg. Last season, LeBron missing the playoffs for just the third time in his career. And Kevin, it almost felt surreal to not have him in the playoffs. I mean, this guy’s been a fixture in the postseason for almost two decades now. Just another bullet on LeBron’s incredible resume. When you consider how far into his career LeBron is, the fact that he is still a force and that he is as versatile and fearless as he has ever been is nothing short of remarkable. Guys, >> count it. And the Laker lead has been cut down now to just three. And the basket from James Harden passes to Reeves. Back to Donicight >> to the wing on the left. Five to shoot. >> The three. Come on. Come on. >> And they’ll get another chance. Here’s Eightton. And again, the Lakers. No good. >> Ball up top. Guarded by Donic. and he’s fouled pretty hard on that shot, but he’s got the chance to pick up the points at the line. That’s on LeBron James. >> And when Collins goes up, the interior defense runs out of options. He forces him to get sloppy. Take a break. Take a break. Two shots. >> And that one falls for Collins. >> He hits both from the strike. And so Donic will bring it up for the Los Angeles Lakers. >> Pass to Hatchima. There’s the pass to Donic. He dishes it to LeBron. Here’s Reeves. And the three off target. The Clippers have gone seven to 14 in the second quarter shooting to the tune of 50%. >> Paul kicks to Lopez and again it’s the Clippers missing >> and he didn’t punish them for the weak coverage there but they can’t count on him to continue missing. The Clippers trail >> outside Leonard and a lot of contact on that one. So he’ll shoot two here. You of course there are some pretty cool stories aren’t there about Kawi Leonard and what he has done in the community. >> There really are Kevin I think about it. When he wins the defensive player of the year award that comes with a car and instead of using it for his own personal use he donated that to a children’s welfare charity. This is the same guy who gave 1 million backpacks to kids in need in Los Angeles. Just a few of the things he does for his community. Take a break. Take a break. Two shots. That one drops. She ties it up. >> I think fans can appreciate Kauaii’s understated and quiet personality because between the lines there’s a level of focus and competitive spirit and most importantly productivity that you can really appreciate. >> And the Clippers making a change here. Dun’s checked in and the Lakers also making a change. Hayes has checked in. >> That one misses. >> Boy, the missed free throw there. keeping this game at even. We’ll see if that comes back to haunt them. >> And here’s Donic from the AR. He doesn’t hit that one. The Clipper shooting has been a little ragged. Just 38% from the field. Paul dishes to Dunn. Pass to Collins. >> Outside Leonard. The Clippers need to get off a shot. from deep. >> It’s rebounded by Donic. >> Lakers shooting in the second quarters been pretty embarrassing. Just 27%. Can they get it? Here’s LeBron. There we go. Now in the scoring column, would that make? He is one for four. >> Yeah, the hustle points by LeBron James. Passion, fire. Yeah, I play with that even now. Here’s Dunn and that one clearly a foul. Gets the whistle and two shots coming up. That’s on LeBron James. >> Oh, the officials are all over that one. >> The Clippers have made five of eight of their free throw attempts. Take a break. Take a break. Two shots. >> That free throw. No good. >> Probably a little draft in the arena tonight. He’s the last guy you expect to miss the mark by that much. >> Absolutely. >> Derek Jones, he’s checked in for the Clippers. He hits the second from the line. >> Chris, a complete basketball player, dynamite scorer, remarkable passer, and one of the elite defenders. >> Now, here is Himura. >> There’s 138 left in the first half. And Donic gets it to go. And they’ve repeatedly probed inside in the first half, guys, and and it’s paid off. >> Clippers trail by three. Paul passes to Lopez. Clippers moving the ball around. >> Paul kicks to Lopez. >> Back to Paul. Lets it go from deep. >> The Laker shooting not great. 40% for the game. Anjitched passes to James over Collins. James with another miss. And here’s Don. He’ll bring it up for the Los Angeles Clippers. Kicks it out to Collins. Out to the right wing. And that comes off the assist by Jones. Collins has got six. >> And this is how you use the mid-range area. Collins keeping it simple and just taking what the D gives. >> Now here’s Donic to Reeves. Now here is Hiimur misses for the fifth time this game. Markin at one for six. Pass to Jones. Back to Paul. Lopez inside. That doesn’t go in. Had a chance though to take the lead. And a close game so far through the first two quarters as we reach halftime. Lakers ahead. leading by just one. And now let’s catch up with David Aldridge who’s standing by from the sideline. All right, Dave. >> Thanks very much with Tailoo. Coach, do you think your turnovers and struggles at the offensive end fueled their scoring? >> Always we turn the basketball over, it’s hard for us to get back, get our defense set. We got to do a better job taking care of the basketball and have a good shot selection. >> We’ll see what you can do to make that better as the game goes. Coach, thanks. Back to you. >> Thanks so much, Dave, for the great interview. Don’t go away, folks. We’ll be back for the second half of basketball right after this. And now, the 2K Sports Halftime Show. Hey, welcome back to 2K Sports. Ernie Johnson alongside Shaquille O’Neal and the Jet Kenny Smith. Let’s get to it. It’s the Lakers out on top at halftime. They lead by one point. Kenny, how’d you feel about it? They found a slight edge on the boards and they’ve done it with nothing but raw determination. I mean, look, they’ve got talent, but the passion is there, and that separates these guys. They’re simply refusing to give up possessions. >> And Shaq, your take on the Clippers? >> It was a great display of team ball. Wasn’t five individuals out there. It was one cohesive unit sharing the rock. Not only does that make it harder to guard, makes the game more enjoyable to watch. And that’s a wrap for our halftime show. The third quarter just about to get started. And in that first half, we saw a pretty tight battle. We’ll soon find out what sort of adjustments were discussed during the half. >> The Lakers in the lead. So the Lakers five right now. LeBron James is out there with DeAndre Aton. Then there’s Luca Donic. Then it’s Ruy Himura. And it’s Reeves in at the two. Nice shot by James. >> Well, the catch and shoot game for LeBron James. It’s all about mechanics and your footwork. He is so good there. >> Harden against Dunish. >> Ask it is good. He’ll get a chance for one more at the line. >> Terrific play call to give him a clean look at the rim. That’s how you want to start the second half. >> Well, there is nothing better than catching a rhythm as early as possible. And boy, that’s a terrific start right there. Heat. Heat. And it’s tied up with that one. >> The old phrase, he lives at the line. That is James Harden, folks. >> Harden against Donic. >> From outside the arc and it’s the Clippers with the rebound. outside. Beal. Come on. Come on. >> Second half just getting started. About a minute played. That’s out of bounds. The Clippers able to retain possession here. And now let’s take a look again at that incredible rejection. And in a close game, blocks like that are so clutch. And that could be a real difference maker here tonight. Hunter on down the wing. He’s covered by Hatchimal for the lead. And that’ll be two free throws coming up. Officials on the call with the foul. That’s on LeBron James. Because Kawawaii Leonard has such a well-rounded offensive game, it’s easy for him to put the defense in a bad position. Draws contact there, two And the free throw is good. Now leading by one. Leonard hits them both. Lakers shooting 39% from the floor. At their best, Donic kicks to Hiimura. That shot wide open. Reeves has got 18 points in the game. >> Well, there are times where the court vision gets questioned, but Ruie Hatchimore, the delivery sets up his teammate. Really well done. >> Now, here’s Leonard. 17 points in the game. >> Collins finds Leonard. Just five to shoot. tipped away and they turn over the 24second buzzer signaling the shot clock violation. >> And you can tolerate gaffs like that sometimes, but in a close game, man, I tell you what, that really hurts. >> Here’s Reeves. 18 points for him. The pass to Donic. Drives to the hoop. Here’s Reeves. score that one for him. His eighth field goal. Eight for 11 on a very accurate night. >> Important point there. Got him on a nice play getting the ball inside and right to the bucket. >> Oh, what an impressive dribble drive. That replay brought to you by Mobile One. >> And a nice score that came from just attacking the rim. Huge play in this hotly contested game. Now here’s Zubox over Eightton. Just five on the clock. No good from Zubox. Lakers leading by three and Nachi Murray in the corner. Anj passes to Reeves. And here is Aon to the middle. No good on that one. So the Clippers will take it the other way. Well, technical fouls have been an issue for Luca Donuch since he entered the league. >> First of all, you love his passion, but I think we’ve seen real progress in this regard. And that’s because you understand if you’re Luca Donuch, you need to play high minutes for your team. I’ll tell you, this guy can be an overwhelming force. DeAndre Aton terrific using his size to get the defender to commit. The Lakers have been shooting right around 75% at the line. Nine of 12 so far. Take break. Take break. Two shots. The free throw drops for Eaton. Vanderbilt’s checked in for James. >> So one for two that time at the strike. Clippers trail by four. Harden can’t hit >> up top. Donic. He’s guarded by Coll and the rejection by Harden. Leonard finds Beal. Another miss. And they desperately need a bucket. >> Here’s Reeves. Eightton trying to break free. >> James Harden when he’s locked in and focused can be an excellent defensive player. Oh, Weiss on the pipes on that one. Here’s Collins and they call the foul. So, he’s got the and one chance here to make it a three-point play. >> Yeah, heard the whistle and then kept his focus and able to still knock it down. >> He’s gone two for two at the line so far. And some changes here for the Lakers. ABC’s checked in for Rui Hachimura and Marcus Smart is subbed in for Luca Donic. >> That one misses for Collins. Lakers have gone three of seven on field goal attempts here in the second half. >> Here’s Reeves. >> Another shot and it’s sent back by Leonard. >> Well, the instincts of Kawhi Leonard on the defensive end are so pure. Send it back away. >> Leonard on the wing. for the time >> and the call on the shot that sends him to the line. >> Well, Kawi has become one of the smartest offensive players in the game, understanding use of the shot fake and what it can give you. >> And a look at how the offensive approach has been going here so far for the Lakers. They bullied the defense here in the paint. Look at all of those buckets inside. Just hard to defend in the paint. >> The other thing for this team, they have a bunch of second chance points. They’re turning misses into makes. >> And the first one drops and the Clippers making a switch here. Vodkovic has checked in. what you want. >> That one drops. He tied it up. >> You want to contest this guy’s shot, but you absolutely don’t want to send him to the line. He will make you pay. And the Lakers call time here. You have to like what we’re seeing so far from Kawi Leonard. >> Boy, he’s been relentless and to this point, they haven’t had an answer for him on the inside. Let’s see if they make some adjustments coming out of the timeout. Heat. Heat. Heat up here. Here’s ABC. Level >> that one doesn’t go and the Clippers will come the other way. Their biggest lead of the game was nine and plenty of contact on the shot. So, two free throws coming up. >> And you know, few guys play their role better than Bdanovich. And and by that I mean he’s often exceeding expectations and giving his squad more than they asked for. Two shots. >> And they now lead as the free throw drops for him. And so Bogdanovich nails both of them. The Lakers shooting an ugly 27% since halftime. You’re smart. Payton trying to break free and he gets the whistle. Two free throws coming up. It’s on Kawhi Leonard and Marcus Smart Ga. The very definition of a guy you love on your team but hate to play against. >> Yeah. And teams that go deep need that sort of presence. Smart is more than just an agitator though. Great player who anyone would want to play alongside. >> Take a break. Take a break. Two shots. And that one falls for Smart. Oh, Marcus Smart. A tenacious defender, which doesn’t always show up, I think, sometimes, Doris, on the statistical sheet after the games. Well, and in fact, Kevin, different teams have different defensive metrics trying to measure that impact. All you have to do though with Marcus Smart is watch the guy work on that end. The way he tracks the play, the way he anticipates, just the energy he brings on the defensive end changes the equation. Boy, I just love how Marcus Smart plays the game of basketball. He’s aggressive, he’s intelligent, and he doesn’t mind getting under your skin. Here are the Lakers. >> And foul on the shot. He’ll shoot two at the free throw line. >> Well, how smart is Marcus Smart using his body? He’s such a physical guard. Seeks out contact. Nice. >> And this is his second trip to the line tonight. Shooting two. And that one falls for Smart. He doesn’t get the second one. >> Out in front now, although he left one point on the board right there. >> Kept alive. Here’s Leonard and he drops in the layup off the glass. Leonard’s got 21. >> As Kawawaii likes to say, boardman gets paid. >> ABC passes to Aton. Passes it to ABC. >> Down to five on the shot clock. >> They grab their own miss. Goes back up. shooting foul and as the whistle blows he’ll shoot two free throws and let’s get your take as in the hustle stats for the Clippers. >> They made a point to protect the rim challenging shots all game long and the block total is off the charts. >> Take a break. Take a break. >> And another theme this game >> to me guys has been how lethal they’ve been in transition. Attack on the break and make sure you convert. That free throw. No good. >> And he’s good on the second. Well, a little shaky from the line and instead of putting them in front, he’s only able to tie it up. >> Inside. Zubox trying to break loose. A nice shot by Bananovich. Bdanovic has got six points. >> Showing off his inside game. Bogdan is an allaround score. outside. Smart >> puts up a three and it’s the Clippers with the rebound. Zubox has got the glass covered here tonight. 11 boards for him >> and he wills that one in. Sinking right through off the back eye. >> Boy, you cannot leave him alone like that. Good form on the fadeaway jumper. >> Pass to ABC. Here’s Reeves. He’s covered by Beef. >> Here’s ABC. Here’s Aton. It falls for the sixth time in seven tries this contest. That’s 86%. >> Well, look at the fluidity in the screen and roll. DeAndre Aton so good at taking what he sees in these sets. Now here’s Zubox. He’s got six. >> Back to Harden. >> Offside. Beal and it’s Aton with the rebound. And he’s easily been their best rebounder tonight. >> He’s competed for every missed shot. Feels like he’s quicker to the basketball than anyone else out there. Here’s Leonard. 11 points in the game. >> Well, defense had nothing for Kawhi Leonard. Nice jam. >> Lakers trail by four. >> Smart passes to ABC. Here’s Reeves outside. Smart fires from deep. It’s held in by Zubots. Zubots has got 13 rebounds in the game. Class eating Bananovich passes to Harden. >> Back to Bganovic. This is it to Zubots and the rejection by Eaton. >> That’s an encouraging sign for sure. Boy, when DeAndre Aton is hustling and focused, he can send it back with the best of them. >> And here are the Clippers. They’re on a 14-6 run. Leonard no left >> in the corner. Smart with it. Bangs home the trifecta. Smart’s got six points. >> Well, though he’s not known as a prolific three-point shooter, Marcus Smart takes his time, delivers. That’s a big time shot. >> And the Clippers call time here. >> Every time out, a chance to review the lineups, matchups, or call a play. And the guys get a little bit of a break mentally, physically, just recharge here quickly. Heat. Heat. Big group substitution here for the Clippers. Lopez, he’s checked in for Zubox. Derek Jones comes in for Kawi Leonard. Chris Duns checked in for Beal. And it’s Paul in for James Harden. And the Lakers also making a switch. Jackson A’s. He’s checked in for Vanderbilt. >> Now here’s Dunn. >> Pass to Paul. This one for three and they force the shot clock violation. Great D, John Collins. He’s checked in for the Clippers. >> The Lakers trail. >> The pass to Eightton. >> Here’s Reeves >> and play stops. whistle on what looks to be an illegal screen. >> Beyond the leaning, you could see his feet more set on that screen. Easy call. >> You know, he’s just leaning up a little bit. You try to get away with it, but boy, the official all over it. >> The Lakers making a switch here. Chimez checked in. >> And it’s Smart with the ball for the Los Angeles Lakers for the lead. and he gets the whistle. Two free throws coming up. >> Well, you know Ruie wants to score it. He will not retreat in the face of some tough defense. Nicely done. >> He’ll take his third and fourth free throw shots of the game right here. shooting two. Ties it up. And this next one could give them the lead. and that drops. So they now lead by one. >> 149 left in the third. >> Outside Banovich. The kick out to Lopez. Passes it to Jones. Six to shoot. Here’s Paul. The Lakers with the rebound. Pass to Hatchim. Good. And Smart gets the assist. >> Smart’s got four assists in the game. I >> I love the ball movement there. He put that on a silver platter. just served him up. >> Now here’s Jones. He’s been patient so far. Nothing on the scoreboard yet. And Bogdanovich catch to Collins. And that one good. Lakers shooting at 36%. They really they seem out of sync offensively. Pass to ABC. Now Hatche Murray to the inside ABC. And good that time. And the Lakers lead by three. >> Well, defensively to me, you’ve got to do a better job communicating once the screen comes. >> Lopez left side. >> There’s 31 seconds left to play in the third. Here’s Jones. And that’ll be two free throws coming up. Officials on the call with the foul. Ruy Himura picks one up. It’s his first trip to the line. And that one falls for Jones. LeBron, he’s checked in for the Lakers. Luca Donuch comes in for Smart. when he comes off. >> No good on the second. So he hits one of two. Three seconds separate the shot clock and game clock. >> Here’s Donic. No good that time. Good D by Lopez. The Clippers trail >> and this will be the last possession of the quarter if they’re patient. >> Well, it’s amazing if you finish quarters the right way, it can have such a great impact on the outcome of a game. >> That’s a two from Paul. We’re at the end of the third and we’ve still got a close one. Lakers lead by two. We’ve got more in store for you right after this. Now, let’s take a look at our assist of the game presented by State Farm. >> Yeah, an easy choice tonight. Look at the precision on this pass. Put it on a platter. >> And when you’re the beneficiary of a pass that good, you better deliver. And he did just that. And I know I speak for all of us when I say I can’t wait to see what kind of finish awaits us here in the fourth quarter. So with Leonard on the bench, here’s who Lu going with. We got Harden, John Collins is out there with Derek Jones and it’s Brook Lopez and it’s Beal in at the two guard position. Now here’s Jones. Here’s Collins to tie it up. Rebounded by the Lakers. >> James has got six rebounds now in the game. Here’s Reeves. Sinks the triple. Reeves has got the fourth quarter started here with a bucket for the Lakers. >> This guy knows where everyone is at all times. LeBron James makes the spectacular assist routine. >> He is singlehandedly dropping the temperature in here with that cold streak. He is trying to shoot his way out of it and it might be better for him to pass the basketball at this point. >> Outside Beal outside Jones. Cowins finds Jones and Jared Vanderbilt gets the whistle that time. That’ll be his second foul of the game. So for the Clippers, I Zubatas has checked in for Brook Lopez and Kawhi Leonard subbed in for Jones. >> Here’s Leonard. Makes it off the glass. Leonard’s got 25 points. and that’s right in his wheelhouse looking to make an impact when it counts. >> This is a player who understands when the game is hanging in the balance. He knows it’s winning time. >> Now here’s LeBron. >> Nice ball movement here by the Lakers. Here’s Vanderbilt and the rejection by Zubox >> Harden against Donic outside. Beal Harden outside the Clippers keep it alive. Second shot opportunity counted in the Laker lead has been cut down to three on the bucket from Collins. >> Becoming a true force on the offensive glass. Love how hard Collins goes after those second chance opportunities. >> And another great look at the 2K drive. Now here’s Hiim. >> Here’s Reeds. The three-pointer no good. The Clippers have gone two for five. One field goal attempts in the fourth quarter. Harden no good. Lakers leading by three and the dunk by Vanderbilt. >> This guy is a high flyer. I mean, especially for a power forward and he needs to be as an undersized player. Around three minutes gone here in the fourth quarter. >> Down low. >> This is where James Harden’s ability to quickly scan the floor and then find the right window to deliver the pass. So good. So good. >> Anj passes to Hatchima. James in the post working on Collins and it’s LeBron missing. >> You know, they don’t score on that shot, but they’re going to be happy with those kinds of possessions. >> And out of bounds as the Lakers gain possession. >> Andre Aiden’s checked in for the Lakers. >> Over three and a half minutes through the final quarter now. Harden against Donic. >> And the rejection by Collins Harden looking it over and the pass to Leonard. Knocked away. Back to Harden. Shot clock at six. passes to be to tie it up. That shot no good. And it’s the Lakers the other way. >> He is just not taking smart shots out there. A pattern he has fallen into tonight. >> And guys, all about hard work from this point on. They’ve worked hard to create that high quality shot and then able to knock it down. >> Now here’s Leonard. Back to Beal >> and two free throws coming up. Unable to get that one to go with all the contact. >> I like the mentality by Beal. Takes it inside, mixes it up a little bit. Nice. Two shot. >> And that one falls for Beal. And since 1999, the Clippers and Lakers have shared their downtown LA Arena. The only NBA teams to split a venue. But that’s going to change soon. No good on the second free throw. The Clippers broke ground on their new arena set to open in Englewood in 2024. I I’ve seen the footprint. You fly right into LAX and you see it every time. It’s going to be beautiful. And that’ll be huge for the Clips. They’re trying to create their own identity in Southern California. Having a venue just for the Clippers will help. >> Here’s Donic after the Clippers pick up two. >> Takes a shot at the elbow. It’s hauled in by Zubots. Zubots has got his 16th rebound on the night >> and Beal kicks to Harden. >> Outside Leonard to tie it up. The Clippers get another chance here to take the lead. No good on the shot. >> And you could tell he thought that triple was going to fall >> on the wing. Donic. >> He feeds it to James that time from left here. Pardon? Right side. That doesn’t go on the chance to tie. And so it’s Himura who brings up the ball for the Lakers. The lead is two. >> Here’s Reeves. He’s covered by Beal. James and the rejection by Zubox. Back to Leonard. lets the three fly. Rebounded by the Lakers. Donic has got his fourth rebound with that. Last one here tonight. Here’s Reeves. The rebound by Harden >> after the strong first half. This guy has not been the same and largely a no-show right here. >> And they take the lead. >> Got 28 points for the game. >> No hesitation for Kawaii right there. The ball is delivered. He’s ready to shoot it. >> Here’s Reeves. Kashimura with it. Finds Dun. No good. And they can’t put an end to this drought. The Clippers in the lead. Here’s Harden. And James pulls it down. James has got rebound number eight here tonight in the game. And there’s a whistle that’s going to go on James Harden. That’ll be his second foul of the game. I >> I mean, I like the call. I thought the defense was just there a little late. >> Now, here’s Donic. And here is Hatchim. >> Just five to shoot. >> Donic against Harden. And there’s the call on DeAndre Eaton. That’s his fourth foul of the C. On offense. Here are the Clippers. They’re on a 12 to four run. Looking to get back on track here and lays it in and it’s a three-point Clipper lead. >> Well, Bradley Beal has become such a good playmaker finishing through contact. That is beautiful. >> James in the post. He’s guarded by Collins and the rejection by Collins. Donic against Harden and finish off by Collins. >> Pick and roll play is a specialty of James Harden. And if he’s got the ball in his hands and there’s a pass to be made, I promise he’ll deliver it. >> And it’s Aton missing. No matter what looks they get, they just can’t convert to stop this run. >> And I think you can start to feel their frustration mounting with every missed bucket. It becomes more and more desperate. >> Now here’s Leonard. Has to be Leonard kicks to Harden. Shoots over Donic. Harden’s shot is off and and he has definitely been struggling in this quarter. And you know what? They keep calling his number and they’re simply trying to get him out of this funk. >> Clearly a foul. Take a break. Take a break. Two shots. >> And he knocks down the first one. and so he hits both and it’s the Clippers ball. They’re on a 16-6 run. Left side. Collins. >> Harden against Donic. Lock at six. Harden. The pass to Zubox. And the dunk by Zubox. Kevin. He is tough to stop when he gets to the rim. >> Yeah, Greg. He can get up a few notches higher. >> Donic dishes to LeBron. Pass to Reeves. >> Yes. And it’s LeBron picking up the assist. Reeves has got a pair of threes here in the fourth quarter for the Lakers. Yeah. And such a clutch shooter. I mean, he lives with a big shot. And when you throw in like this, watch out. >> Zubox the best of Collins. Leonard trying to break free. Shot by Collins. No good. and his defense so valuable. Not many can bother that shot at the rim. >> Boy, you see the effort, you see the range. This guy prides himself in his ability to shut you down. >> And here is Beal after Luca Donuch hitting the three. Two free throws coming up and they call the shooting foul. Bradley Beal is an elite offensive player and now the pressure is on at the foul line. Can he come through? He drops the first one and that ties the game up. >> And for a number one option like Brad, you embrace these moments. And so making both free throws. Better give them the lead here. And nice work at the line. I mean, when the game’s this close, you have got to cash in on those opportunities. James looking around and finished off by LeBron. That gives him the double double. 10 points and 10 rebounds. >> And if you want to talk about liftoff, folks, he went right from the launching pad. Serious extended hang time there. Even at full speed, it looked like he was in slow motion. Just amazing. >> He gets the first and that ties the game up. Bradley Beal went from being a consistent allstar to becoming one of the most efficient and dangerous scorers in the league. What a transformation. >> And so both free throws good that time and that puts him ahead. Yeah. Critical that he’s able to convert there. Now they’ve taken the lead. >> Now here’s LeBron. Dodge it trying to get open. And another basket for the Lakers. >> Yeah, there’s not a person in this building who didn’t know the ball was going to LeBron. And still he delivers. >> And the call on the shot that sends him to the line. Wow. Wow. He got whacked on that one. Shouldn’t be much debate there. Two shots. Good on the first and that ties the game up. And so is good on both free throws and that gives them the lead. The Lakers shooting 40% in the fourth and foul on the shot. Oh, he’ll get a chance at the line. Bradley Beal picks one up. And how many times have we seen this? LeBron at the line in a big moment. He knocks down the clutch free throw. And so making hopefully that’ll give them the lead here. >> And really the tension could not be higher right now. And he looked like he was shooting free throws at practice. What a cool customer. Beal >> and denied. He sends it right off the glass. We can probably expect to see him slow it down now. >> Yeah, I think you want to milk your possessions. >> Here’s James Collins with some nice deep. This is a huge possession and this is where all the hard work pays off. You have to be able to execute under pressure. So much riding on that shot. What a bucket. >> I’ll tell you that changes things. doesn’t it? Good job, young fella. What a game. >> Timeout called the Lakers. They’re behind by one. 27 seconds left in the fourth quarter. And now we present our New Balance player of the game, Kawhi L. And guys, no doubt who our pick is going to be. He’s made everyone else on the court look like they’re playing at half speed. It’s been total domination and you can’t help but just sit back and admire that performance. >> And while we’ve got a moment, let’s send it over to our terrific reporter, David. David, >> hey, Kevin. During that last break, I heard the Lakers coach talk to his team. He told him, “Hey, this game is there for you, but we got to go get it. 50/50 balls get to the basket. We have to give it all right now.” >> Thank you, David. Here’s Reeds and it’s a mission and they need to stop the clock. So, there’s a foul. Had to foul on that occasion to stop the clock. That’s the enemy in this situation. He hits the first one and that will put them up by two. Well, James Harden’s game lends itself perfectly to these late game situations. Now, big time chance at the free throw line. And so, both free throws are good. And it’s a three-point game. >> And the perfect time to be perfect at the line. Only a three can tie it now. >> And the Lakers call time here. They’re trailing by three. 12 seconds left here in the fourth quarter. Guys, what’s your take? >> And it’s do or die time. They need a bucket here to stay alive. >> And it’s either got to be a three-pointer or a score quickly and take the foul. >> Kj from deep three-point land can’t get the three to fall. They foul intentionally. That’s what they have to do at this point. So, the first one drops and that gives them a four-point cushion. >> And I don’t think John Collins is a guy who gets flustered easily. Well, let’s see how he does at the strike. and the second free throw. No good. A tough break there. Aimura kicks to LeBron from deep three-point range. Off on that one. So, it’s the Clippers taking the win and a close one. It was up for grabs right until the final seconds. >> Yeah. And for me, Kevin, what stood out is just the overall trust this group has in one another when it matters most. doing what had to be done and to send these fans home happy.

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