February 14th - The Clippers narrowly defeated the Rockets 105-102 . Kawhi Leonard recorded a double-double with 27 points and 12 rebounds, while Dunn and Mathelin each scored 16 points, demonstrating a balanced team performance. For the Rockets, Durant had 21 points , 8 rebounds , and 6 assists, and Sheppard added 17 points, but their unbalanced offense and defense in the final quarter allowed the victory to slip away.

At the start of the game, the Rockets, led by Smith, hit consecutive outside shots, taking a 7-point lead. The Clippers tried to narrow the gap in the second half of the quarter, but still trailed 22-29 at the end of the first quarter. In the second quarter, the Rockets' outside shooting remained consistent, with Sheppard scoring 11 points and hitting 3 three-pointers, helping the team maintain their lead. Although the Clippers kept the score close with multiple players contributing, they were unable to take the lead. At halftime, the Rockets led 56-46.

After switching sides, the Rockets extended their lead to 13 points at the start. The Clippers intensified their transition offense, narrowing the gap to 3 points. However, the Rockets steadied themselves and widened the gap again. At the end of the third quarter, the Rockets continued to lead 76-70 . In the final quarter, the Rockets' offense suddenly stalled, while the Clippers exploded, quickly tying the game and establishing a 7- point lead. Leonard scored 19 points in this quarter alone , taking over the game with consecutive key scores. Although Durant scored 11 consecutive points late in the quarter to try and salvage the situation, the Clippers didn't give their opponents another chance. Ultimately, the Clippers narrowly defeated the Rockets 105-102.

Clippers player statistics

Leonard 27 points, 12 rebounds, 4 assists; Dunn 16 points , 2 rebounds , 6 assists ; Mathelin 16 points , 3 rebounds, 3 assists; Lopez 15 points , 1 rebound , 3 assists; Collins 12 points , 6 rebounds , 1 assist ; Jones 12 points, 1 rebound , 3 assists; Miller 4 points, 3 rebounds; Sanders 3 points , 1 rebound , 1 assist; Niederhauser 3 rebounds

Rockets player statistics

Durant 21 points, 8 rebounds , 6 assists; Sheppard 17 points , 2 rebounds , 4 assists; Smith 16 points , 12 rebounds; Shen Jing 16 points , 9 rebounds, 6 assists; Ethan 13 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists; Thompson 12 points, 6 rebounds , 5 assists; Tate 4 points , 1 rebound , 1 assist; Capela 3 points , 5 rebounds

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